Possible cuts to Powys’ library services could be devastating for libraries in Machynlleth and Llanidloes, local councillors have said.

Machynlleth and Llanidloes, as well as Rhayader, all have library branches, but after a stay of execution in funding cuts last year, a Powys County Council scrutiny committee heard that cuts could be made to library services in the 2020/21 budget.

That has raised the prospect of services facing major upheaval, with Machynlleth councillor Mike Williams and Cllr Gareth Morgan, who represents Llanidloes, saying any cuts could be devastating to the towns.

Cllr Williams said: “The loss of the library in Machynlleth for people in Machynlleth and people from nearby would be devastating, not just for readers, but people who use it to access computers.

“There are a number of computers there. I know there are many people who don’t have access to email at home. There are people who have benefit forms they need to submit and people have applied for their bus passes there.

“People need the facility and what it provides. Losing it would be a huge mistake.”

Cllr Gareth Morgan said Llanidloes Town Council was already paying a significant amount towards the town’s library and said any possible service cut or even closure should not be considered.

See this week’s Machynlleth & Llanidloes paper for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now