A futuristic new library is offering free internet access and increasing book lending by 25 per cent.

The £2 million Scandavian-style facility was opened in Friars Walk, Lewes, yesterday. It replaces the building in Albion Street.

The library houses computers, DVDs, films and newspapers on microfilm as well as 12,000 books.

Its pitched roof and rose-coloured interior with wooden panelling, glass walls and high ceiling have been designed to allow in as much light as possible and to ventilate without air conditioning.

The library is wheelchair and pushchair-friendly with a lift to the second floor where there is a reference and local studies section.

Bookshelves on this level can be wheeled aside to create a function area for 50 people. Outside there is a piazza with rows of seating for outdoor events. Downstairs there are departments for very young children and young adults.

The site was made available in 1998 but the planning process was delayed when the original design was turned down on cost grounds. Building began a year ago.

The library was opened with a concert by Andy Woon and his jazz band, from Worthing, and acting performances by Paddock Productions.

Bob Tidy, East Sussex county councillor for libraries, said: "It is very light, open and friendly. It will be, I hope, a mecca for the people of Lewes and in particular children. It is a library for the 21st Century."

Barry Forster, the council's group manager for libraries, said: "The library lends just over 200,000 books a year. We are expecting that to go up by 25 per cent."

Opening hours are: Monday and Thursday, 9.30am to 7pm; Tuesday, 10.30am to 5pm; Wednesday, 9.30am to 1pm; Friday and Saturday, 9.30am to 5pm. More information at www.eastsussex.gov.uk or call the library on 01273 474232. There will be an opening ceremony in October.