ONE of Newport's libraries could be facing the axe as part of the coalition's cost-cutting measures in next year's budget.

City leaders have to find "significant" savings of more than £5 million for 2009/10.

Among the long list is a reference to a library closure which will save £30,000 but there are no details about which of the city's 11 libraries could be under threat.

However, it is understood that it is unlikely to be one of the main libraries.

A report on the issue is due to be considered by councillors later this month.

Cllr Ray Truman expressed his concern about the proposal to close the library as well as a reduction in new book purchases for the service to save £61,000.

Cllr Mike Hamilton, cabinet member for leisure and continuing learning, said the proposal on new book purchases was only for this year and the closure suggestion would be considered by members of the scrutiny forum.

In drawing up next year's budget, city leaders said they wanted to protect frontline services but savings had be found across all departments.

Only schools remained outside this process and saw an increase in their budgets for next year.

As well as Newport Central Library in the city centre, there are library and information centres in Bettws, Malpas, Pill, Corporation Road (Carnegie), Ringland, Caerleon, Rogerstone, Maindee and Stow Hill.

There is also a community learning and library service in Beaufort Road, St Julians.

Pill's library recently moved to newly refurbished "fit-for-purpose" premises in Commercial Road after leaving its previous home in a Victorian building in Temple Street.

The work was funded by the council through a grant from Museums Archives and Libraries Wales.