LIBRARY users in South Gloucestershire can borrow electronic books as part of a pilot service that has just been launched.

The new scheme has come into operation during a nationwide week-long celebration of libraries.

It allows anyone with a personal computer or laptop and a compatible portable device to choose from more than 700 eBook titles and download them for free, although the service is not compatible with the Kindle.

Members of libraries can download them for up to 21 days for free, with loans expiring automatically, removing concerns about overdue charges. They can also be downloaded around the clock via the internet.

The development is the latest improvement to the district's library service, which has had major investment in the past four years.

It has seen Yate library undergo a £1.5-million refurbishment and Kingswood get a facelift, with extensions to Bradley Stoke, Hanham and Winterbourne libraries.

Staple Hill library was replaced and the Patchway library service moved into the new children's hub for the area last September.

Thornbury library is in need of major repairs and maintenance and South Gloucestershire Council is looking at ways to provide improved facilities in the town.

It said its outline plan for the whole service in the future was to provide library facilities with other services wherever possible – such as in Patchway – including health services, leisure centres and schools.

During 2011 more than a million visits were made to the district's libraries.

James Hunt, the council's executive member for communities said: "We are always seeking ways to improve the service and meet the changing needs and expectations of users."