ESSEX County Council chairman Chris Manning-Press and community serfices cabinet member Iris Pummell were guests of honour at the official launch of the newly refurbished Loughton Library.
A fun day for children and adults included a puppet show, book activities and musical recital.
The libary has been revamped with a self-service borrowing system.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) terminals allow customers to return, renew or borrow items simply by scanning their library card and following instructions on the touch screen.
The units print a receipt to confirm the items borrowed at the time, any others still on loan and return dates.
The technology is to be rolled out to 30 libraries across the county over the next 18 months.
Mrs Pummell said: "This is an exciting project which will see Essex Libraries leading the way nationally."
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