February 23, 2026 - 232 views
Conwy’s network of libraries has been praised for its strong performance in the latest national assessment of public library services.
A report due to be presented to Cabinet this week highlights the success of the county’s Library and Information Service in the 2024–25 Welsh Public Library Standards (WPLS) Assessment, published annually by the Welsh Government.
The findings show that Conwy meets all 13 Core Entitlements in full — the key measures that ensure residents have access to quality library services. Of the five national Quality Indicators with specific targets, four were achieved in full, with one partially met.
The assessment recognised several strengths, including rising attendance at events and activities, and the positive impact of community programmes delivered in libraries across the county.
Libraries in Conwy run a varied programme of activities, from shared reading groups and dementia-friendly “reading friends” sessions to wellbeing-focused activities for children and families. The report highlights the growing role of libraries as community hubs — offering far more than book lending alone.
Councillor Dilwyn Roberts, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Governance Services at Conwy County Borough Council, praised staff for their work.
He said: “I’d like to thank our library staff for their commitment in achieving these high standards, and for their excellent customer service. It’s particularly pleasing to see the evidence that our libraries can act as community hubs providing a wide range of services and activities, a key commitment within the citizen outcomes of our Corporate Plan.
“We recognise that there are challenges and ongoing financial pressures, but our commitment to maintaining opening hours and protecting frontline delivery demonstrates how highly we value our libraries and the benefits they provide to residents.”
Among the specific Quality Indicators achieved in full were support for health and wellbeing, events and activities for users with special requirements, the location of service points, and opening hours per capita. Staffing levels and qualifications were partially met.
The report will be formally presented to Cabinet at its meeting on 24 February.
The Welsh Public Library Standards are designed to measure how well library services across Wales are performing and to support ongoing improvement.
