STAFF and volunteers at a community library are encouraging people to visit and try out its programme of activities.

Y Lolfa Gwaun cae Gurwen library is based in the community hall, New Road, and is run by a team of volunteers led by Lucy Harrison, library coordinator.

Lucy said: "It is more of a community hub. We are a friendly bunch and we encourage people to come along and see what is on offer.

"We have arts and craft activities, local history, welsh learning, music sessions, and of course, plenty of books."

The library offers free membership, where the public can lend both Neath Port Talbot and Y Lolfa's own books. There is also a range of nearly new books available for sale.

The library supports the Amman Valley foodbank, also based at the hall, as well as Hwyl Wellbeing, a Mental Health and Wellbeing Drop-in Clinic.

The clinic is held every Friday and supports local residents. Community Development Officer Lynne Hopkins said: "We have a coffee morning every Friday at the hall and we are on hand to support people who are experiencing difficulties at home, from housing to financial pressures. We look at their circumstances, offer support, signpost them to the foodbank and see what led them to use the foodbank and deal with it."

Lucy added: "There is a real community feel here at the hall. The activities and programmes we offer at the library feed into the foodbank and wellbeing sessions. We are all here to support one another."

Local resident Terry Lewington praised the library for helping him through the loss of his wife.

"If it wasn't for the ladies at the library I don't know where I'd be now," he said. "They encouraged me to take up drawing as a coping mechanism and it has helped me enormously. They are always here if I need a chat and have plenty of advice to offer."

For a full list of activities or if you would like to volunteer at the library you can either pop in to see the team, visit the library Facebook page, email ylolfa.gcg@gmail.com or ring 01269 825904.