A LECTURER'S exhibition of 90 books - recycled into art - is to tour Britain.

The "Rich and Strange" project by Celia Jackson started when the University of Wales, Newport lecturer when she was given 130 unwanted books.

Rather than leaving them on the shelf, Ms Jackson contacted artists from all over the world and gave them the change to make something new from the items.

She said: "The aim of this research project is to address people's preconceptions about libraries in particular and books in general and about what artists do and how they create.

"The notion of recycling is important as this project gives old books a new life and new meaning."

She said the success of the project was exactly what she had hoped for - that they would stimulate the imagination of others that see them.

The books are currently on show at Hereford College of Arts from January 17 to February 22.

Future plans include shows in Nottingham, Bournemouth and Derby.