A FIGHT which has gone on for more than five years to save a library from closures has finally come to an end – and it's good news for book readers.

After being threatened with closure in 2016 due to Powys County Council budget cuts, the future of Hay-on-Wye Public Library is secure for the next five years.

It comes as a result of extensive negotiations between Powys County Council and HayPublicLibrary.org, the Community Interest Company, set up by Hay-on-Wye Library Supporters in 2019.

The company worked with Councillor Rachel Powell, portfolio holder for children and young people, culture and leisure, to draw up a five-year commercially binding contract.

This guarantees Hay Library will retain the same opening hours and staffing levels, the company said, with hours reduced when it moved to the site of the new primary school in Oxford Road.

“Our first objective was to keep our library open," said Mike Eccles, one of the CIC's directors.

"But we have plans to expand the services and activities available in our library.

"During our discussions, it was clear that Coun Powell shares our vision that libraries are a safe, free space where communities can develop networks and a resilience to face the future.”

Coun Powell was keen to emphasise the importance of working in partnership with local communities to ensure the future of the library service.

She said: “As well as being a community hub, libraries give residents access to other services and benefits, particularly as so much now has to be done online.

"Developing the library as a one-stop shop is crucial in meeting the needs of local residents.

"It is also integral to the council’s remit to alleviate isolation and loneliness as well as supporting and engaging with young people.

"It has been an absolute pleasure in working closely with HayPublicLibrary.org CIC, to ensure that this much valued resource, continues to grow from strength to strength.

"This has only been successful due to those members behind it, whose shared vision and willingness to work with the local authority in collaboration, has ensured the future of Hay Library is secured.

"I really look forward in seeing what develops and how the residents of Hay and surrounding areas, will continue to benefit.”