OVER 100 residents attended a public meeting tonight to hear of an alternative proposal that could see Malpas library saved from closure.

Residents were keen to hear if their library had a future after last year it was revealed Newport City Council will need to make £268,000 of savings in its library services budget, meaning libraries across Newport could face closure.

One of the proposals being considered – a four hub model – would see four library “hubs” remaining open across the city. The council is running a public consultation on the proposals until Friday, January 16.

But the 110 people at the meeting voted that council officers would put an alternative proposal before the council, that the library remains open but with reduced provision.

Newport City Council’s strategic director for place, Sheila Davies explained in the alternative proposal a librarian would be present for 20 hours a week and space within the library would be reorganised to host other activities that would generate income for the library building.

Residents raised concerns about restricted access to books but library manager, Gill John, added that research could be undertaken if the proposal is agreed to look at a self service system.

Chairman of the meeting, Graham Dally, received applause when he said if residents agreed to accept this alternative proposal and if the council’s cabinet agree to it, then another public meeting will be called so that residents can help shape the finer detail of the proposal.

Community centre volunteer Joan Sheppard said that the size of the meeting showed the “community spirit” in the area adding: “we do not want to lose one of the few facilities that we have for the community.

“It is very busy all through the day, attracting all age groups, and the activity sessions the library runs for children, especially during the holidays, are very important to families.”