MORE computers will be put in Kirklees libraries - thanks to a £333,000 lottery grant.

Kirklees Council's Cultural Services is receiving the money to improve public access to computers and the internet.

An extra 71 computers will be provided - bringing the total in Kirklees libraries to 189.

And video conferencing facilities will be available in the two busiest libraries - Huddersfield and Dewsbury.

It will allow people to speak to family members abroad and businesses to speak to contacts.

Ten libraries will receive special computer systems which can be adapted for use by the disabled.

They will have large monitors and keyboards, adjustable desks and software which makes text bigger or converts print to the spoken word.

Cables and lines used by the libraries' computer network will also be upgraded.

All 23 libraries in Kirklees will benefit from either new or upgraded computer systems, which will be installed by the end of the year.

When the new computers in libraries are added to those available in information and learning centres, people will have access to about 1,000 computers across Kirklees.

The £333,757 lottery grant is part of a £100m People's Network programme to improve access to the learning across the country.

Kirklees Council cabinet member for Lifelong Learning Clr John Smithson said: "In 2001, we had nearly 67,000 internet sessions by members of the public.

"The extra computers from the People's Network will help us meet the steady demand for these services."

Library users can spend one hour on the internet per visit and can also use computers for word processing and spreadsheets.

Library staff across Kirklees are undergoing computer training so they can help people.

So far, 35 staff members have been awarded the European Computer Driving Licence and some have started advanced training.