The National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth is to close its doors to the public from 5pm today.

The library confirmed this afternoon it was closing to the public from 5pm on Tuesday with public events at the library also cancelled or postponed.

A spokesperson said: "Due to concerns over the spread of Covid-19 and the wellbeing of readers and visitors, the National Library of Wales building in Aberystwyth will close to the public for an indefinite period from 5pm, Tuesday, 17 March.

"As part of this decision, all public events on library premises will be postponed or cancelled initially for a period of three months.

"The library’s wide range of digital resources will be available throughout this period."

The step follows guidance from the UK Government urging people to avoid going to events and to practice ’social distancing’.