Vale Community Libraries Celebrate 10 Years of Community Success
Community libraries across the Vale of Glamorgan are celebrating ten years of success, marking a decade since local communities took over the operation of their local libraries from the Vale of Glamorgan Council.
Ten years on, these libraries have gone from strength to strength and continue to be vibrant multi-use spaces run by the community, for the community.
There are five community-led libraries across the Vale of Glamorgan, including 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.
This partnership has allowed the libraries to retain their strong community identity while continuing to provide valued library services to residents.
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.”
The impact of the community-led model can be seen particularly clearly in Sully, where library user numbers have increased by 29 per cent between 2016 and 2025.
Sully Library volunteer and trustee Rhian Thomas said the community had been determined to keep its library open when the changes were announced: “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.”
Community libraries across the Vale have celebrated the milestone 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, featuring live music and dancing.
Rhoose Community Library marked its 10th anniversary by bringing volunteers, supporters and others who have played a part over the past decade together to celebrate the valuable service the library provides for people across Rhoose and the surrounding district.
The celebration showcased local literary talent, with three local authors — Chris Lloyd, Brenda Despontin and Graham Loveluck-Edwards – while Rhoose Local Vocals choir helped open the festivities with a special celebratory performance.
The highlight of the event in Rhoose also came at the beginning of the celebrations as Jane John - the High Sheriff of South Glamorgan - presented the High Sheriff’s award to Rhoose Community Library and Activity Centre.
In Wenvoe, the library's anniversary formed part of Wenvoe Community Council's Community Engagement Day on 3 October at Wenvoe Community Centre. The event included community stalls, a BBQ and entertainment.
After ten years, the Vale of Glamorgan’s community libraries continue to be welcoming community spaces where people can meet, learn, take part in activities and access services.