DUDLEY libraries' free wi-fi service will be upgraded following a successful bid to Arts Council England.

Wi-fi in all borough libraries, library links and archives will be upgraded to the council’s free borough wide DudleyConnect service, scheduled to go live on February 15.

The new public wi-fi service was recently introduced in various locations across Dudley, giving members of the public safe and easy access to the internet using their own mobile devices.

Once registered, users can use the wifi in any connected venue including libraries, Dudley Council Plus, Himley and Priory Halls, Dudley and Stourbridge Town Halls, Cornbow Hall, Mary Stevens Park cafe and leisure centres.

The new free, public access wi-fi will no longer require library visitors to log on using their membership card.

People can sign up to the wi-fi either through their social media accounts or via email to create an account.

Once registered, a device will automatically connect to the service whenever a device is within range of an enabled access point, allowing an equal level of access to everyone who uses Dudley Connect.

Users will also be able to find out about the latest news, information and offers from the council when they register.

Cllr Rachel Harris, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “We’ve been offering free wi-fi at libraries since 2011, but this new upgrade makes registering and using wi-fi simpler and allows users to access this free facility in a range of council buildings."