Newport Community Library – FAQs

Why is Newport Town Council taking over the library?

Newport Town Council were approached by Telford & Wrekin Council to look at ways in which we could work together to ensure that the library could be sustained.  They asked if we had an alternate location for the library.

Will the library service still be Telford &Wrekin?

Yes, Telford & Wrekin will still run the library service for the whole of Telford.

Will I need to apply for library membership?

No, you will still use your existing library card

Will I still be able to borrow books from other libraries?

Yes, the Telford Library service will still exist and members at Newport Community Library will still use the existing cards.

Who will supply new books for the library?

Telford Library Service will still supply books for Newport Community Library.

Will groups such as Bounce & Rhyme still happen?

Yes, all existing groups in the library will remain and we are hoping to increase groups and events in the library.

Will the opening hours be changing?

The library opening hours will still be:

Depending on use and in consultation with library users and residents this may change in the future.

Can I still apply for a blue badge and/or concessionary travel pass at the library?

Yes, First Point will stay in the library so the staff at the library will be able to help you with blue badge and concessionary travel passes.

Will people outside Newport that don’t pay Newport part of the council tax (precept) still be able to use the library?

People from all over Telford will still be able to use the library service as part of the Telford Library Service.

We are currently in conversation with surrounding parishes about working with us to make sure that the service is sustainable in the future and that resident from surrounding areas can continue to access community events at the library.

Will the library be closing for refurbishment?

We are currently seeking grant funding to be able to make improvements to the library.  If we are successful, then we may need to close the library for a short time. This will not be very soon though and we will make sure that we publicise the dates in plenty of time.

When are Newport Town Council taking over the library?

1st April 2024

Library will open on 2^nd April 2024

Can I volunteer at the library?

We welcome volunteers at the library.  If you are interested please drop us an email.

What about the staff?

The current librarian will be moving to Newport Town Council and will continue to work in the library.  There are currently jobs advertised to work in the library, click on the link for more information. Latest News – Newport Town Council (newportshropshire-tc.gov.uk)

What will be new?

You will now be able to make Newport Town council enquiries in the library.  The Guildhall will be closed to the public and the town council opening hours will be the same as the library.

Staff in the library will be able to answer any town council queries as well as library queries and support with blue badge applications and concessionary travel.

Improvements will be made to the building.

What is the future of the library?

The initial agreement with Newport Twon Council and Telford Library Service is for 6 years but we are hoping that it lasts a lot longer.

The Town Council have agreed to sign a 99 year lease for the building to ensure that it can be used as a space for the community in the long term.

We appreciate that the library is a very valuable asset to residents in Newport, not just for borrowing books but for community support and events and we want to work with you to make sure that the space is well used for everyone in the community.

I still have a question/comment

If you have any questions, comments or would like to volunteer at the library then you can contact your local  town councillor, details can be found here Meet the Councillors – Newport Town Council (newportshropshire-tc.gov.uk) or contact the Newport Town Council office