A COMMUNITY volunteer group has been set up in an attempt to write a happy ending for Newport library.

There were fears the library could face closure at the end of March after budgets cuts led to a reduction in funding from Pembrokeshire County Council.

The newly established Newport Library Working Group is working with the county council to find a way forward and is now urging more people to join them in the fight to save the library.

The group says it has already secured a reduction in rent on the current premises and many offers of volunteer help.

If enough money can be raised to pay rent and utility costs on the building, or another suitable space, the county council has said it will continue to provide books, computers, staff time and training for volunteers.

Kate McEvoy, chairman of Newport Library Working Group, said: “We have evidence that there has been a library in Newport in one form or another since the 1920s and, nearly 100 years later, it is unthinkable that we could allow government cuts to deprive the community of this essential source of information, education, expertise and entertainment.”

As well as raising money, volunteers will also be needed to help run the facility if it is taken over by the community, and residents are encouraged to become a Friend of Newport Library.

The group has already held a successful coffee morning and will be celebrating National Libraries Day with a free book swap event at Newport Memorial Hall on Saturday, February 6, followed by a garage sale in Long Street, Newport on February 15.

For more information email newportpembslibrary@gmail.com or contact Paddy Davies on (01239) 820435.