Hertfordshire Libraries Celebrate 100 Years of Service with a Year-Long Programme of Events
Hertfordshire Libraries are set to mark a significant milestone as they celebrate 100 years of service with a series of special events and activities across the county’s 46 libraries.
The programme has been carefully curated in collaboration with Hertfordshire residents and library users, offering a diverse range of events including literature and poetry celebrations, theatre performances, comedy shows, and activities for children, young people, and families. The celebrations have been made possible through a successful funding bid to Arts Council England’s National Lottery Project Grants for Marking a Milestone: 100 Years of Reading, Discovery and Connection.
The centenary year will officially begin with a launch event on Friday, 28th February at Welwyn Garden City Library, marking exactly 100 years since the establishment of the countywide library service. The event will feature speeches, an interactive session with a local artist, and the unveiling of a touring exhibition exploring the rich history of Hertfordshire’s libraries.
New events will be announced throughout the year, with details available on the Hertfordshire County Council website as well as the Hertfordshire Libraries and Royston Library social media channels.
As part of the centenary celebrations, members of the public are invited to share their reflections and memories of Hertfordshire Libraries. A dedicated book will be available for visitors to record their experiences, whether it be a childhood visit, a memorable event, a special book borrowed, or simply what Hertfordshire Libraries means to them. Memories can also be submitted directly to the Herts Memories website: www.hertsmemories.org.uk
At Royston Library, young visitors who attend Storytime sessions on Friday 28th February and Saturday 1st March at 2pm, as well as Baby Rhyme Time on Wednesday 5th March at 10.15am and 11.15am, will receive a special commemorative certificate. In addition, families can enjoy a lively performance of Old Macdonald and the 3 Pigs Plus by Booster Cushion Theatre on Thursday 29th May, an interactive storytelling show designed for children aged 3–7. Tickets, priced are £5 per person, and available from Royston Library or online: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries
Further activities and events will be announced throughout the year, with updates available on library noticeboards and social media channels.
