Monmouthshire County Council's new community hub for Usk - housing the community learning and youth services as well as the council's integrated library and one stop shop teams - is now open.

The hub has brought together all the services under one roof to preserve those departments that other councils are closing down. The staff are trained in all the different aspects, so that any one member can move onto another part of the building to provide an uninterrupted level of service.

This concept will save money as only one building is used as opposed to three. The main room is flexible to allow different activities to take place; the central library stands can be wheeled to the side to allow for other classes.

A side room is available for more private consultations and kitchen facilities and a coffee machine are available.

A multifunctional device, pictured right, allows members of the public to sign out library books if they are there for another event and see a book they would like to take out; they can do so out of library hours.

There is wi-fi available throughout the whole building to make the visit more enjoyable.

A cosy area for reading groups or language classes is available for smaller groups.

The whole building has been brought up to modern day eco standards with lowered ceilings and insulation - a building fit for today's purpose.