Vale community libraries mark ten years

Community libraries across the Vale of Glamorgan are celebrating ten years since local communities took over their management from the Vale of Glamorgan Council. There are five community-led libraries in the area, located in Wenvoe, Dinas Powys, Rhoose, St Athan, and Sully and Lavernock.

Volunteers lead the day-to-day running of the libraries, while the council provides support, including professional library expertise and access to the wider network and services. This partnership has contributed to the libraries’ success, with library user numbers in Sully increasing by 29 per cent between 2016 and 2025.

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Education, Arts and the Welsh Language, praised the community libraries, saying: “Our community libraries are a wonderful example of what can be achieved when communities and the Council work together.”

Rhian Thomas, a volunteer and trustee at Sully Library, noted that the community was determined to keep its library open when the changes were announced. She said the day-to-day running of the library is now managed by a team of volunteers, who have helped the library thrive for ten years.

The libraries have marked their anniversary with various events, including an open day at Sully and Lavernock Community Library, a barn dance at St Athan Community Hub and Library, and a celebration at Rhoose Community Library featuring local authors and a performance by Rhoose Local Vocals choir.

In Wenvoe, the anniversary was part of the Community Engagement Day on 3 October, which included community stalls, a BBQ, and entertainment. The celebrations reflect the strong community support for the libraries, which has been instrumental in their success over the past decade.

The community libraries’ success is a result of this partnership, and they continue to play a vital role in the community.

Rhian Thomas and her team of volunteers have been essential to the library’s success. They have worked tirelessly to ensure the library remains a lively part of the community, and their efforts have paid off.

The events have brought people together, and the libraries have been able to showcase their services and activities.