Community libraries across the Vale of Glamorgan are marking ten years since local communities took over the running of their libraries from the Vale of Glamorgan Council.
There are five community-led libraries across the Vale of Glamorgan, at Wenvoe, Dinas Powys, Rhoose, St Athan, and Sully and Lavernock.
While the day-to-day running of the libraries is led by volunteers, the council continues to support them as part of the wider Vale library service, providing professional library expertise and access to the wider network and services.
In Sully, library user numbers increased by 29 per cent between 2016 and 2025.
Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, said: “Our community libraries are a wonderful example of what can be achieved when communities and the Council work together. Ten years on, their success is a testament to the dedication of the volunteers who give their time to keep these important local facilities thriving.
“The Council is proud to continue supporting our community libraries with professional expertise and access to the wider library service. I would like to thank all the volunteers and communities who have played such an important role in making these libraries the success they are today.”
Rhian Thomas, a volunteer and trustee at Sully Library, said the community had been determined to keep its library open when the changes were announced.
She said: “People in the village were passionate about keeping the library open. I was only one of many people at the time.
“The day-to-day running of the library is now down to a team of volunteers, and they’re a great team. Absolutely wonderful.
“One of the librarians once told me that the life expectancy of a community library was three years. Not only have we been here for 10 years, but all the other community libraries in the Vale have been here for 10 years as well. So, well done to the Vale and its residents.”
The libraries have marked the anniversary with a series of events this year. Sully and Lavernock Community Library held an open day with a free book stall, refreshments and a raffle, while St Athan Community Hub and Library held a barn dance at the Paul Lewis Community Centre.
At Rhoose Community Library, the celebration featured local authors Chris Lloyd, Brenda Despontin and Graham Loveluck-Edwards, and Rhoose Local Vocals choir helped open the festivities with a performance. Jane John, the High Sheriff of South Glamorgan, presented the High Sheriff’s award to Rhoose Community Library and Activity Centre.
In Wenvoe, the anniversary formed part of Wenvoe Community Council’s Community Engagement Day on 3 October at Wenvoe Community Centre, which included community stalls, a BBQ and entertainment.
