CHEPSTOW author Meg Kingston held a ‘Read-In’ protest at the town's library last Saturday, as part of a national day of protests against the closures of local libraries.

Read-In events were organised all over Wales and England on February 5, in protest against library closures planned in some areas and to demonstrate public support for the services provided by libraries.

As no new cuts have been announced for Monmouthshire libraries, the Chepstow event aimed simply to raise the profile of the library service and ask users to show their support.

Mrs Kingston, who is a member of the society of authors and regular book reviewer for NewBooks Magazine, is also encouraging people to visit their local libraries, register if they haven’t already, take out books and show their support in any way they can. She has also drafted a petition, as she describes it "as a pre-emptive measure", which has already gained over 1,500 signatures and is located to sign at Chepstow library.

She said: "Libraries are as important today as they’ve ever been. A library is a significant part of a local community, providing several different services under one roof.

"It’s not just piles of dusty hardbacks - there are popular paperbacks, audio books and large print editions. Members can borrow maps, access reference books or use a PC with free internet access. Libraries have been providing their services for decades, but are also moving with the times."

Ann Jones, principal librarian said, "Although I've been told not to expect to have to make any further immediate reductions in library service delivery, it was very good to see such enthusiasm and support from Chepstow library customers. I was pleased to hear people telling me just how much they value the range of resources and services we provide."

Further events are planned at the library around World Book Day on March 3, and March 5 will be the first ever World Book Night. A total of one million books will be given away across the UK, and Meg Kingston will be distributing copies of David Mitchell’s ‘Cloud Atlas’, around Chepstow town centre on the day. For further information visit www.worldbooknight.org