The future of Launceston Library has been safeguarded for the community after a new agreement which will see it transferred to Launceston Town Council on May 1.

The arrangement, which is part of Cornwall Council’s devolution programme, means the library will continue to provide all the key services essential to a modern library as well as access to a range of Council services.

Launceston Library is remaining part of the countywide service meaning customers will keep their existing library cards and can still visit, borrow and order books online from other libraries in Cornwall.

The Mayor of Launceston, Cllr Margaret Young, said: “Launceston Town Council are delighted that, by working in partnership with Cornwall Council, we have been able to secure this very important service for the town.”

Edwina Hannaford, Cornwall Council cabinet member for neighbourhoods, explained that in these challenging financial times, Cornwall Council — like all local authorities throughout the UK — has had some tough decisions to make when faced with massive cuts in funding from central Government.

“We are delighted that Launceston Library has been secured for the community and many more generations of library users will be able to benefit from all it has to offer.

“Libraries are important to our residents and this is why we have been working closely with Launceston Town Council to secure the future of the town’s library. I commend them for the excellent service they are providing to their community and this is a good example of devolution in action.”

Adam Paynter, Cornwall Councillor for Launceston North and North Petherwin, said: “I am delighted that we have exciting plans for the library. We also have longer term plans for the site and other buildings in Launceston to benefit the town.”

Jade Farrington, Cornwall Councillor for Launceston South, said: “It is fantastic to see Cornwall Council and Launceston Town Council working together to reach a solution for the good of the town.

“A huge amount of hard work has gone in to ensuring a sustainable future for our library, and I would like to thank everyone who has worked to secure this.”