HUNDREDS of people have signed a petition to try and save the "under-used" library at Abersychan.

Torfaen Council says Abersychan accounts for only five per cent of useage of the borough's library services, and the planned closure is part of a series of measures cutting £114,000 from the leisure, libraries and arts budget.

Nicola Leek from Talywain set-up a 600-name petition in an attempt to save it.

She said: “I’m really passionate about our local area and the library is about having something for the community where people can have access to the books and don’t have to travel out of their way to get here.

“I just think its wonderful that they can come to read and use the computers. It’s a part of the community that we can’t afford to lose - it’s important for everybody.”

Norma Jackson, 70, brings her great-grandchildren two-year-old Caitlin and Grace, 10 to the library every Wednesday.

Norma said: “There’s something for everyone here, you’ve got computers so people can look for jobs and it's something for the children to do to get them interested in books.

“I’m retired so I help look after the children, and Caitlin is always asking me when we’re going to the library for storytelling.”

Student Rosa Carton, 25 and her two-year-old daughter Saoirse also make regular use of the library.

Rosa said: “I really don’t want it to close. Saoirse plays with the toys while I’m studying for a masters degree in animal manipulation.

“I use the internet and word processing to get my work done in an upstairs room where the door is closed – Saoirse is safe so I don’t have to keep a constant eye on her.”

Torfaen's executive member for regeneration Cllr Richard Clark responded: “I understand some residents will be disappointed by these proposals and we always regret having to reduce services. However, given the amount of money received from the Assembly, tough decisions are unavoidable."

Abersychan Library's fate will be decided at a meeting of the full council next Tuesday, March 2.