THE possible closure of Knighton Library at the Community Centre, due to withdrawal of funding by Powys County Council (PCC), has been averted, at least for the next 12 months.

News of the reprieve has been welcomed by the Mayor of Knighton, Cllr Nick Johns, but calls have also been made for residents of the area to act now to help preserve its long-term future.

“We are very relieved that the library is safe for now. It’s important to recognise that our library does not just lend books, it’s home to a range of community services, and vitally, somewhere where the internet can be accessed to look for work and access the benefit system,” said Cllr Johns.

The original budget for 2019-2024, presented by Powys County Council on February 21, contained proposed savings of £200,000 from the library service, threatening the future of 10 rural libraries, including Knighton.

Following wide public outcry and lobbying of Powys councillors, these cuts to funding have now been shelved at least for this year.

Knighton Town Council, Knighton Community Centre and Knighton Library Friends welcomed the decision to maintain current funding for this year.

Annie England, chair of Knighton Library Friends, promised that the friends group would be working closely with the whole community to protect and promote the library.

“We will be supporting our wonderful librarian in increasing library membership, in promoting the wide range of services offered by the library and in ensuring that Powys County Council realise the vital role a library plays in any rural community,” said Ms England. “We urge everyone to join our library and sign up to be a friend.

“We will be holding an open community meeting on April 1, where we will be explaining to anyone who would like to join us how they can help protect and promote Knighton Library for today and for future generations.”

PCC has warned that the savings from the library service will still need to be made in a year’s time.