ALMOST all users of Huddersfield Public Library want to see the building stay, says a new survey.

Users were questioned on whether they wanted to see the 1930s library demolished and replaced with a new building.

The question was in a survey carried out last November by Kirklees Libraries Service.

The survey was done to comply with Government regulations.

A Kirklees Council scrutiny panel will examine the survey on Monday.

Out of 520 people surveyed, nearly all said the library should be repaired and refurbished and keep its historical features - especially the 1930s facade.

They also want it to stay where it is because it is easy for people to get to it.

But seven people felt the library was too old and neglected and should be replaced with a modern one.

The survey also contains people's opinions about facilities, staff, layout, opening hours and usage.

The survey showed that the library is mainly used by retired people aged 55 to 64. About 52% of all users are female and most users go once a week. Nearly all users said that, overall, the library provided an excellent service.

Historical reference sections received special praise.

Comments included: "I love this wonderful library" and: "The library is a major asset to the town."

There were some complaints, however, mainly concerning a lack of investment.

One user said: "The staff do a magnificent job, but the library should have far more money spent on it."

Complaints included lack of building maintenance and lack of investment in books and computers.

People also complained about expensive photocopying charges and problems with using online library services via the internet.

Some people said not enough newspapers were stocked, there was not enough material from different countries and there was a lack of material for ethnic minority groups.

Some people said the arrangement of books was confusing.

There was a general opinion that opening hours should be extended to include Sundays.

Access for the disabled was also said to be a problem, because of steps and heavy doors.

Other people suggested a cafe, changing the layout and access of the art gallery and a Muslim prayer room.

The thing that people praised most was staff's helpfulness, but their main problem was the availability of books.

Out of 520 people, 59% of people said they used the library to borrow books.

Most people found what they were looking for - except those seeking DVDs, videos and CDs. Just 13 people found items in this area.

Most users said staff were always there to help, with 58% rating the service as very good.

Kirklees officers said the way surveys were carried out had changed this year, which affected the results.