Taibach Community Library is more than a building. It’s a living, breathing part of our local heritage – a place that has empowered generations through learning, connection, and community spirit. Nestled in the heart of Taibach, Port Talbot, our volunteer-run library stands proudly on over 100 years of history and continues to serve as a hub of opportunity, support and friendship for people of all ages.
Our library’s story begins in the early 20th century – part of a remarkable global legacy created by 19th-century Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie believed deeply in the power of education and self-improvement, and credited free access to libraries as a driving force in his personal success. Determined to extend the same opportunity to others, he funded the creation of more than 2,500 public libraries around the world.
Between 1902 and 1913, Wales became home to 35 Carnegie libraries, funded by grants provided through the Carnegie Trust. These libraries were built in towns and industrial communities across the country – and one of them was here in Taibach.
The driving force behind Taibach’s library was Councillor William Lewis JP (1863–1941), a respected local figure who believed passionately in the value of a free public library. He petitioned both Andrew Carnegie and local landowner Emily Charlotte Talbot for their support.
In 1913, Margam Urban District Council received a £2,500 grant from the Carnegie Trust, and Miss Talbot generously provided the land – on the condition it be used solely as a library and residence for a librarian or caretaker. She also donated £100 towards the purchase of books.
The foundation stone was laid by Cllr Lewis himself in July 1914, with a large and enthusiastic crowd in attendance. Two years later, in 1916, Taibach Carnegie Free Library opened its doors to the public. The original building included reading rooms and a lecture hall, but the Lending Library didn’t open until January 1917 – and even then, books were chosen for visitors and handed over through a small serving hatch. It wasn’t until 1931 that members of the public were allowed to browse and choose books for themselves.
The building still proudly bears the inscription “Carnegie Free Library” above the entrance and is recognised as one of the best-preserved Carnegie libraries in Wales. The original foundation stone can still be seen on the front of the building – a reminder of our proud beginnings and enduring purpose.
Nearly a century after the library first opened, it faced one of its greatest challenges. In 2014, due to local authority cuts, Taibach Library was earmarked for closure. But the community refused to let that happen.
A determined group of local residents came together to form the Taibach Community Library charity, stepping in to take over the running of the building. Since then, the library has been entirely run by volunteers, with no paid staff or government funding. Everything we do relies on the passion of our team and the generosity of our supporters.
Without the continued support of individuals, families, and local businesses, our library simply couldn’t exist – but with your help, we continue to grow stronger.
While we’re proud to maintain our core role as a lending library, Taibach Community Library is so much more than a place to borrow books. We are a vibrant community hub – a safe, welcoming space where people can come together to learn, connect, and thrive.
Whether you’re popping in for a quiet read, joining a group, or getting help with technology, there’s always something going on. Here’s just a taste of what we offer:
- 🎨 Art sessions for adults of all skill levels
- 🧶 Knitting & Crochet Circles for creativity and conversation
- 🕹️ Games clubs with board games, toys and sensory play
- 📜 Family history sessions to help you trace your roots
- 💻 IT help to support digital confidence
We’re proud to be a space that’s accessible, inclusive and full of heart – where everyone is welcome, and every visit matters.
Keeping a historic building open and running a full programme of community events takes time, energy – and money. Each year, we aim to raise around £6,000 to cover the essential costs that keep our doors open and our services thriving.
Your donation will go directly towards:
- 🔌 Heating, electricity and water bills
- 🛡️ Insurance to protect the building and everyone in it
- 📦 New books, equipment and supplies
- 🧰 Maintenance and repair of our historic premises
Every supporter will be recognised in our promotional materials and proudly listed on our Community Sponsorship Board, located inside the library.
There are lots of easy ways to support us:
💷 Donate in person – Visit the library to give by cash, card or cheque
🏦 Bank transfer – Quick and secure (details available in-library or by request)
🌍 Online giving – Donate via PayPal from anywhere, anytime
🛍️ Shop and support – Choose us as your charity on easyfundraising while shopping with Tesco, eBay, Booking.com and more – further details here.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident of Taibach, a newcomer to Port Talbot, or someone with fond memories of childhood library visits – we invite you to be part of our story.
Come visit. Join a group. Bring a friend. Make a donation. Spread the word.
At Taibach Community Library, everyone is welcome – and everyone belongs.