RESIDENTS concerned over the closure of their public library in the town of books are meeting later this month to discuss its future.

A public meeting over the future of Hay Library will be held at the Parish Hall in Lion Street on January 30 at 7.30pm, a drop-in session will also be held from 3.30pm.

Hay-on-Wye library is one of 11 in Powys which could close permanently by the end of March if no funding is found.

The library in Chancery Lane is open four days a week and costs £37,500 a year to run, of which £7,000 is contributed by Hay Festival.

The public meeting will involve updates on the current situation, information and planning.

Anita Wright, friend of Hay Library said: "The local community can see what point we're at so far and town council representatives will say what they have tried to do.

"We want the local community and all other organisations to come along as it's a real opportunity to share information and updates on what has happened so far."

Hay-on-Wye Town Council are currently in discussions with Powys County Council over the library's future.

County Councillor Gareth Ratcliffe added: "As local member for Hay-on-Wye I would encourage as many people as possible to attend a drop-in session and public meeting to make sure their views are heard.

"Powys County Council can be under no illusion that Hay-on-Wye residents will fight for our library."

Welsh Assembly Member for Brecon and Radnorshire Kirsty Williams will also be speaking at the public meeting.