Posted on: Wednesday 8 October 2025
More than 54,000 people have visited Cwmbran Library since it reopened on the 31st March this year following a half a million pound refurbishment.
The redevelopment included a new dedicated teenage library, flexible study areas and community spaces.
During the same period, an average of 2,300 people came through Pontypool Library's doors each month, with Blaenavon Library seeing around 3,100 visitors.
A survey has now been launched to understand what people like about their local libraries and for those who don’t use them, what else they would like to see.
The consultation will explore how libraries can better meet community needs, identify any gaps in current services, and uncover new ideas for how library spaces can be used.
Cllr Peter Jones, Torfaen Council's Executive Member for for Corporate Governance and Resources, said: “We’re working to make our libraries more flexible and welcoming spaces for residents and community groups. To be a place that inspire new and creative uses, and help support independence, resilience, and wellbeing.”
"While book lending remains a core part of the service, our libraries have become vibrant community hubs, which offer a range of different services including free access to computers, free Wi-Fi and a growing programme of activities and lifelong learning opportunities.
"If you already use our libraries, we would like to know what you like about them and what else you would like to see introduced. If you don't use them - or haven't visited for a while - we'd like to know why and what else we can do to encourage you to visit."
Residents are encouraged to complete a short online survey, which closes on Friday 21 November 2025.
Take part in the survey here.
The Cwmbran Library refurbishment was funded by £300,000 from the Welsh Government's Transformation Capital Grant and £127,000 from the council.
It followed previous Welsh Government funding in Pontypool and Blaenavon Libraries, with £300,000 allocated to Pontypool Library in 2011 and £100,000 provided when Blaenavon Library co-located to the World Heritage Centre in 2015.
Find out more information about Torfaen Council’s library service on our website.