One of Saltwell’s ‘jewels in the crown’ to celebrate 100th anniversary
Gateshead Central Library is set to celebrate its 100th birthday with a special event on 7th March next year.
The event will be held in partnership with The Queen's Reading Room, a charity dedicated to promoting reading.
Visitors can look forward to a 'Meet the Author' session featuring writer Peter James and ITV’s Grace star Richie Campbell.
A family-friendly session will also be conducted by the library’s “storyteller-in-residence” Chris Adiraanse, who will lead folk-tale and fairytale storytelling.
Councillor Angela Douglas, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport, and Tourism, expressed excitement over this milestone.
Angela Douglas said: “Gateshead Central Library has been part of the fabric of our borough for 100 years. It’s wonderful to mark this milestone with an unforgettable event alongside The Queen’s Reading Room. I would encourage as many people as possible to come along and make themselves part of the library’s history.”
Saltwell councillor Denise Robson highlighted the importance of libraries, saying that many people might not recognise their relevance.
Robson said: “I think a lot of people don’t realise the relevance of libraries. The fact that they are free, introduce our children to the magic world of readings, and the archives for people doing research of various kinds.”
Robson added: “The fact we have the library in such a beautiful building and its having its hundredth birthday is fabulous.”
Vicki Perrin, Chief Executive of The Queen’s Reading Room, expressed delight at being part of the festivities.
Vicki Perrin said: “We are delighted to celebrate this remarkable milestone with Gateshead Central Library. For a century, this library has been lighting little fires of curiosity and imagination in its community – exactly the spirit that drives our mission at The Queen’s Reading Room.”
Further details of the event can be found on Gateshead Council’s website.