More people in Blaenau Gwent say their local library has made a real difference to their life than anywhere else in Wales. Libraries in the borough performed exceptionally well in 2024/25, a Welsh Public Library standards report has concluded, with the numbers attending increasing by 26% compared to the previous year.
The report, submitted to the Culture Division of Welsh Government, highlights the service’s achievements during the eighth and final year of the Sixth Assessment Framework, ‘Connected and Ambitious Libraries.’
Blaenau Gwent Council’s Adults, Communities and Well-being Scrutiny Committee today welcomed the report.
Libraries in Blaenau Gwent are managed by the Aneurin Leisure Trust, in partnership with Blaenau Gwent Council. The service has demonstrated remarkable progress and impact: meeting all 13 core entitlements and achieving 4 out of 5 quality indicators in full.
These days, libraries are about more than just books, they offer a wide range of services and support. This includes digital inclusion initiatives, Citizens Advice and the Council’s Community Hubs which provide face to face advice on Council services. There are also a range of social clubs and groups held at the venues.
Leader of Blaenau Gwent Council, Steve Thomas, said:
“Libraries are at the heart of our communities. They provide far more than books — they offer spaces where people connect, learn, and access vital support and services. Through the Blaenau Gwent Deal, we are working closely with residents to build fairer, healthier, and stronger communities. A key part of this approach is harnessing the strengths and willingness of local people to improve wellbeing.
Libraries already play a huge role in this, hosting social clubs and activities that bring people together and enrich lives — from Welsh baby yoga and coding clubs to creative writing groups and mental health art sessions.
Aneurin Leisure Trust is a valued partner in this work, and together we are committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of the Library Service. This report highlights that shared commitment. Our goal is clear: to ensure libraries continue to thrive as vital community resources for years to come.”
Donna Hardman, Library Service Operational Team Leader said:
"The team at Blaenau Gwent Libraries is committed to providing the best service to their local community and we're delighted that this is reflected in the outcome of the Welsh Library Standards report.
"Each library offers so much more than just books. From our thriving clubs catering for different interests, including working with many different partners to expand on the variety of activities that take place each week, to working closely with schools and other departments in the Trust to expand the awareness and reach of the libraries' service, and providing the much-needed home delivery service to those unable to come into the library in person.
"We will continue to develop our service to meet the needs of the Blaenau Gwent community and look to work with many new partners in the coming year."
Libraries are constantly adapting to community needs and are also promoting inclusivity, having introduced a ‘quiet hour’ initiative, which has been warmly received by neurodivergent users.
The report also highlights the role of libraries in combating social isolation, improving literacy, and supporting economic well-being, aligning with Blaenau Gwent’s Well-being Plan and Marmot Principles.
The Council’s Cabinet will now consider the report.
Interested now in finding out more about your local library? For more information go to: Libraries - Aneurin Leisure manages the libraries across Blaenau Gwent.