We will be taking part in the tenth anniversary celebration of the Rhoose Community Library
Message from the library chairman below

Rhoose Community Library Celebrates Ten Years at the Heart of the Community

This year marks a very special milestone for Rhoose Community Library and Activity Centre as we celebrate ten years of community ownership, volunteering, learning and connection.

Ten years ago, when the Vale of Glamorgan Council announced that several rural libraries would no longer be operated directly by the Council, the future of the Rhoose library was uncertain. Rather than see this valued local service disappear, a group of dedicated residents came together with a shared determination to keep their library open for future generations.

A small steering committee was formed to create a registered charity, develop a constitution and make a bid to take on the running of the library. Their hard work and commitment paid off. In 2016, Rhoose Community Library became a registered charity and successfully secured a 99-year lease, ensuring that the library would remain at the heart of the village for years to come.

Over the past decade, hundreds of volunteers, trustees, supporters and partners have played a part in the library's success. What began as an effort to save a library has grown into a thriving community hub. Alongside providing access to books, information and digital services through its partnership with the Vale of Glamorgan Council Library Service, the Library and Activity Centre has become a place where people meet, learn, create and connect.

To celebrate this remarkable journey, Rhoose Community Library and Activity Centre will be holding a special 10th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday 5September from 12 noon.

The event will be an opportunity to bring together everyone who has been part of the library's story, past and present, and to recognise the contribution made by volunteers, library members, supporters and community partners over the last ten years.

Visitors will have the chance to meet three well-known local authors:

•Chris Lloyd •Brenda Despontin •Graham Loveluck-Edwards

All three authors will be available for book signings and will have copies of their latest books available on the day.

The celebrations will begin with a performance by Rhoose Local Vocals Choir, helping to set the tone for what promises to be a memorable day of community celebration.

Chairman Jeffrey James, who has served since the charity was first established, reflected on the milestone:

"Having been Chairman for the past ten years, I still remember those early days and the many people who played an important part in ensuring that the library remained an essential part of the community. This anniversary is a chance to celebrate everything that has been achieved together. I hope to see many familiar faces on the day, including former and current volunteers, library members, supporters and friends, as we look back with pride and look forward to the future.

"Everyone is welcome to join us as we celebrate ten years of community spirit, dedication and achievement, and the people who helped make Rhoose Community Library the vibrant community hub it is today.