Community urged to help secure future of local library buildings

Community urged to help secure future of local library buildings

Community groups across the Caerphilly county borough are being encouraged to come forward and help secure the future of a number of library buildings that are earmarked for closure.

The council has agreed a new strategic vision for its Library Service, which involves the creation of enhanced town centre hubs and the closure of smaller community sites.

The plans have been subject to a period of public consultation earlier this year and the council's Cabinet met this week (Wednesday 14th May) in order to reach a final decision.

Cllr Carol Andrews, Cabinet Member for Education said, "We've carefully considered the feedback from the community and, after exploring all options, we have made the difficult decision to proceed with the planned closure of the sites."

"We very much value our library service, but the unprecedented financial pressures facing us means that we must act now to secure a sustainable library model which is fit for the future."

Leader of Council, Cllr Sean Morgan said, "It is important that everyone understands we have to deliver significant savings in order to plug a £29milluion hole in our budget over the next 3 years, so doing nothing is not an option,"

"This is an opportunity for the community to come forward and help us secure an alternative future for many of these sites. I would encourage any interested parties to get in touch and discuss Community Asset Transfer options with us as soon as possible," he added.

The new Library strategy will see the rolling out of the exciting new Community Hub model, which has been successfully piloted at Rhymney Library recently. These 'Tier 1' sites would be strategically located at Bargoed, Blackwood, Caerphilly, Rhymney and Risca libraries.

Smaller 'Tier 2' Community Hubs would also be created at Ystrad Mynch and Newbridge libraries.

For more information about the new Library Strategy visit:

Agenda for Cabinet on Wednesday, 14th May, 2025.