THE recession has led to a surge in people visiting Torfaen libraries, it is claimed.
In the last six months 2,500 new members have joined a borough library.
The county's strategic library and information manager, Christine George, said: "Many Welsh libraries have noticed an increase in visits, lending and membership over recent months. It seems the recent marketing drive for libraries in Wales and the recession have combined to create a significant impact on our service.”
The free broadband and computer access offered is helping people search for jobs and fill out and submit online applications.
Executive member for regeneration, Cllr Richard Clark, said: "During the recession, free reading is an obvious draw for people tightening their belts."
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