FUNDING of £120,000 has been announced for Neyland Library by the Welsh Government.

Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport, Lord-Elis Thomas, announced the cash boost last week.

The money will help cover the costs of rehoming the town library in the new Community Hub at Neyland Athletic Club, which is currently under development.

The move will help "transform the library into a multi-use facility, making it more financially sustainable and improving performance; it will also help the library to engage with the community, and assist it to deliver a professional library service".

The funding comes from the Transformation Capital Grant Programme which supports museums, archives and libraries to transform services for users, and ensure their future sustainability.

Lord Elis-Thomas, said: “ I’ve been able to see first-hand the improvements this fund has already made in creating bright, modern and welcoming spaces for everyone."

He said libraries offered a range of opportunities, including play and learning for children, help on managing health, a chance to accessing free wifi and games, as well as helping people find work.

He said they played an important role in strengthening communities, adding the development at Neyland would be a "great asset" for the town.

"Many libraries are at the centre of people’s lives and they have the potential to transform those lives by allowing a space for experiences to be shared and for promoting learning opportunities," he said.

Paul Miller, Pembrokeshire County Council’s cabinet member for economy, tourism, leisure and culture - who is also the councillor for Neyland West - said: “Two years ago our community was faced with the prospect of all but losing its library service with proposals under consideration to reduce opening hours to a maximum of two days a week.

“Now, thanks to this partnership between Neyland Community Interest Company, Pembrokeshire County Council and Welsh Government the community can look forward to a brand new, purpose-built library incorporating the latest technology and open seven days a week.

“It’s a great outcome for everyone and the new Community Hub remains on track to open its doors before the end of 2019.”