An Edwardian library is reopening today after being restored to its former glory.

Hove Library, a Grade II listed building, has undergone a seven-month, £350,000 restoration.

New or improved features include a children's library; a sound and vision section; a lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender collection; a study area and books in other languages. The oak parquet floors and oak furniture have been restored and the walls have been painted in the original shade of green.

A toilet for the disabled and baby changing facilities have been installed on the ground floor and a glass lift has been introduced in the old stairwell.

The restoration comes almost a year after the opening of the celebrated Jubilee Library in Brighton, and the Hove Library has borrowed some its counterpart's technological ideas.

A new computer system allows borrowers to check out and return books themselves, while 17 new computers offer free internet access.

A further £95,000 will be made available by the council every year to buy about 7,000 new items.

Originally, Brighton and Hove City Council contemplated relocating the library because the task was seen as too difficult within a limited budget. But there was a rethink after opposition from residents.

Deputy leader Sue John, said: "In practical terms we thought what was needed was too much of a challenge but we've met that challenge.

"The set-up before didn't encourage people to stay in the library, they just got what they wanted and left. Now it's more like a public living room."

Sally McMahon, the council's head of libraries, said Hove Library was a "landmark development" for the council.

Commenting on the opening of the Jubilee Library and the reopening of Hove Library, she said: "There's a thoroughly modernised and accessible library service for the majority of people in Brighton and Hove. We will now be turning our attention to our 12 community libraries to improve services there."

There were fears the opening would be delayed after asbestos was exposed during the work. But tests showed there were no health risks.

The building was originally opened in 1908 after the Scottish-born steel magnate Andrew Carnegie donated £10,000 of the £13,000 required to build it.

The library is open on Tuesdays from 9.30am to 7.30pm; Wednesdays to Fridays from 9.30am to 5.30pm; and Saturdays from 9.30am to 5pm. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.