The future of Hayle library and information service is safe after a new agreement, which will see Hayle Town Council take ownership.

The agreement is part of Cornwall council’s new devolution programme meaning the library will continue to run as well as holding access to council services.

Hayle 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,

A celebratory event is being held on May 31 at 3pm, which is open to all.

Mayor of Hayle, Clive Polkinghorne, said: “I am delighted that after three years of negotiation by a number of Town Councillors, Hayle Town Council staff, Cornwall Council staff, many consultants and various legal experts, we will see Hayle Library come under the ownership and control of Hayle Town Council.

“The Library is an important asset to the town, which we hope to enhance and continue to provide an excellent library service to the community.

“I wish to pay a special tribute to our excellent Hayle Town Council staff, namely Ellie, the Town Clerk, who oversaw this process and transfer, Karen who read and responded to the legal documents and Phil who has negotiated the building and land compliance. Hayle Town Council is delighted to add the Town Library to its Portfolio and preserve the vital service for Hayle.”

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.

Councillor Hannaford said: “We are delighted that Hayle Library and Information Service 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 Hayle Town Council to secure the future of the town’s library.”

Hayle Cornwall Councillor John Pollard said: “This is excellent news and will not only maintain the existing services but, in the future, could make our Library even more of a community hub.

“Congratulations to all involved but especially the small group of Town Councillors and the Town Clerk who managed to make our ambition a reality.”