The future of Machynlleth Library is not in jeopardy, town councillors have been assured, but the county council is looking at ways of working differently to cut costs.

Kay Thomas, the council’s head of libraries, told Machynlleth town councillors that Powys County Council has no plan to close or downgrade the library.

But she added that, like all county council departments, they are looking at different ways of working that could help save money, but also improve services.

Ms Thomas suggested closer working with other organisations, such as Powys Health Board.

Satisfaction levels among users of the library were good, Ms Thomas added, with the only issue being opening hours.

Councillors praised the library and staff at the facility and said any attempt to close the library would be a massive blow.

Cllr Tony Jones said: “It would be a devastating blow if the library closed, so we have to do everything we can to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

However, Ms Thomas said there were no plans to close the library, and instead the service is looking at how it can improve things there.

Cllr Glenda Jenkins said the library offered a range of services that many people weren’t aware of and praised a new initiative that will see books read aloud to people with dementia.

She added: “It’s a wonderful service for this town. If there’s anything the town council can do, I’m sure we’d all want to help.”

Councillors said it was important that the library offered a range of services, especially with access to computers and the internet for those without computers, but it was also necessary for the staff to be able to offer support and advice for people.

While there are a range of potential new services, Ms Thomas said one issue with the current library building was that it did not have space to host private meetings which would offer another community facility for the town and residents.