Aberbargoed Library has celebrated the first anniversary of its reopening.
Around £90,000 was spent on its refurbishment after it closed in March 2012.
Since it reopened in May last year, the number of visitors has grown by 71% to 15,764 with 9,825 books issued. Computer use by local residents at the site has increased by 11%.
Labour councillors decided to reopen the library after it was closed by the then ruling Plaid Cymru administration.
After winning back control of Caerphilly County Borough Council, Labour cabinet members decided to approve plans to modernise the library, situated in Pant Street.
Plaid had closed the library arguing that millions of pounds had been spent already at Bargoed’s Hanbury Chapel library development.
Cllr Rhianon Passmore, Cabinet Member for Educatio, said: “I am very pleased that the library has remained a popular hub of the community of Aberbargoed since its refurbishment last year.
“It is vital to ensure that the county borough’s libraries are well maintained in order for them to provide the highest standard of services, as they are so important to the learning and development of residents.”
A promise made to the residents of his ward by Councillor Reynolds. Sod the expense.
I’m glad this council is far sighted enough to continue to provide library services. I am critical of council decisions when I think they are wasting money but without libraries the less well off are cut off from literature, research material, education and the internet.
Well done to the council, let’s hope the people of Aberbargoed make full use of this facility.