Powys libraries were the 6th most visited out of 22 local authorities in Wales, new statistics show.

Kirsty Williams, Assembly Member for Brecon and Radnorshire, published the figures showing over 700,000 people visited the county's libraries in 2017-18, more than nearly three-quarters of the rest of Wales, amidst ongoing budget uncertainty following the rejection of the Council Cabinet’s budget proposals on February 21.

The research shows that, despite its rural nature, Powys sees more visits to its libraries than the vast majority of council areas in Wales.

Powys was also 7th in terms of visits per population, with 5,411 library visits per 1,000 population, while Powys saw a greater proportion of library visits in Wales than its share of the population. It accounted for 4.36% of library visits across Wales, despite only having 4.25% of the population.

Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for Brecon and Radnorshire, said:

“We often hear about declining library use. About how these services aren’t being used. I’m presenting the information in this publication to show the other side of the coin. What it says, loudly and clearly, is that Powys’ residents value their libraries.

“Only six of the 22 council areas across Wales saw more library visits than Powys. The high use in Powys comes despite the rural nature of our county, with the average resident less likely to have a library on their doorstep.

“Of course, our libraries have not been immune from the Wales-wide trend towards declining use. Those of us wanting to secure the future of libraries must be up-front about that. And it’s in that context that services need to be planned. We do need to think about different approaches, such as greater community involvement and co-location with other services that we’re increasingly seeing. Where this happens the Council needs to be fully committed to supporting it.

“But needing to think differently doesn’t mean we don’t need to think at all. Powys values its libraries more than the majority of local authority areas in Wales. The Council’s plans to slash support for branch libraries do not reflect that.

“Our libraries are cultural and educational assets which can open up new horizons for people. I would urge the Council to take this information into account when considering the future of libraries in Powys.”

Meanwhile, discussions between group leaders on the rejected Powys County Council budget have started, according to the Local Democracy Service.

Discussions have centred on trying to re-jig some of the cuts, with libraries, youth services and rises to school dinner fees discussed.