Skip to content

Library poised for summer move despite opposition

Google Street View Aberaeron library is a large stone building of two storeys with several windows and a clock on the front at the topGoogle Street View
Objections to Aberaeron library's move include a loss of footfall for local business, and users wanting to shop and socialise in the town centre

A library's controversial move from the town centre is expected to be completed by the middle of 2025.

Aberaeron library is expected to be in its new home in a county hall building on the edge of the town at Penmorfa by June, according to Ceredigion council.

Many of the 900 people who took part in a public consultation opposed the move, but in October it was backed by senior councillors, as part of a £70,000 savings target for the library service.

It is one of four full-time libraries in the county, and potential similar proposals were suggested for Lampeter, partly due to budget pressures.

Concerns voiced by opponents included a loss of footfall for local businesses, increased walking distance making it unusable for those with physical limitations, and users wanting to shop and socialise in the town centre at the same time as visiting the library.

At the October meeting, councillor Elizabeth Evans described the plan as "not fit for purpose".

She said at the time: "Please reconsider this decision, I urge you please, prove me wrong and just make the right decision for the people and you will get the footfall in the library."

She has since raised concerns about the "unknown" timescale for the move, and said "everyone remains very angry about the decision".

Ceredigion council Graphic showing new library site at Penmorfa with tables, chairs and bookshelves in several different-sized roomsCeredigion council
The council says the new library site at Penmorfa will have "much more space for activities, study and a host of new digital resources"

A Ceredigion council spokesperson said a tender process was under way, with work expected to begin in February and end in June.

"The new library will be larger and have an improved collection of books with a much-improved children's collection," said the council.

"There will be a new focus on wellbeing and much more space for activities, study and a host of new digital resources.

"The new library will be open for longer during the week as well as Saturday mornings and also continue to support the public with council inquiries.

"At a time of challenging finances, we are looking forward to starting on this project to improve and safeguard library and customer contact facilities in Aberaeron."