A generous funding package has been agreed to support the financial sustainability of Milford Haven Library.
At its meeting on January 12th, Milford Haven Town Council agreed funding of £18,700 to support Milford Haven Library over three years.
The decision follows a year of partnership working between Pembrokeshire County Council, the Port of Milford Haven and Milford Haven Town Council to find solutions to funding pressures on the library.
A public consultation in 2025 had highlighted the importance of the library as a community asset.
Discussions led to a generous contribution of £10,000 from the Port of Milford Haven and £3,000 from the Town Council to ensure the continued operation of the library for the 2025/26 financial year.
The latest funding supports the operation of the library for the next three years, and will sit alongside continued substantial financial support from the Port of Milford Haven over the lifetime of the Council’s lease.
Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, said: “This is excellent news for the town as it allows us at Pembrokeshire County Council to continue to provide a much-valued service at the current levels.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of Milford Haven Town Council and the Port of Milford Haven, as through partnership working we are able maintain this important community resource.”
Cllr William Elliott, Mayor of Milford Haven, said: “We are delighted that we have reached a consensus to support the library for our community over the next three years.
“We value the importance of the library, not just for the loaning of books but also being utilised for groups, wellbeing checks, warm spaces and more.
“Over the past 12 months, we have continued to work with the library team, the County Council and the Port of Milford Haven to explore all available options and we are committed to continuing this important partnership moving forward too.”
Tom Sawyer, Chief Executive at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Libraries are cornerstones of our communities – a place where people connect, learn, and feel supported.
“We’re proud to have helped ensure this vital resource remains accessible to everyone who depends on it.”
Milford Haven Library is based at Cedar Court.
