LIBRARIES in Manchester are logging on to a £610,000 bonus to take the total numbers of computers in branches to more than 500.

The money, from Peoples Network Funding, means a wide range of multi-media facilities and an extra 187 computers will be provided.

The grant will enable Manchester Libraries to expand its range of services and contribute significantly to the city council's plans for more access to services through electronic means.

With 250,000 booked computer sessions a year already, the libraries are developing partnerships including one with the city's adult education service. Funding is being sought to bring tutors and ICT support staff into libraries.

Now, many more people will have the chance to learn how to use the Internet, moving from interaction to completing electronic transactions.

Manchester Libraries already have a growing number of ''silver surfers'' and courses will be developed for other groups, including ethnic communities.

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