First opened in 1937, we celebrated our library’s 80th anniversary with a great party on 24th June. Starting off with special Story Sharing session for younger children at 2.30, the afternoon had something for everyone, and not just the endless supplies of tea and cakes. Many of these were donated by Friends who also lent bunting and helped decorate the library and garden.
A powerpoint presentation on the history of the library had been put together by Dr Sarah Preston and this ran all afternoon. Our library was built by local builders Kidman and Sons, and former councillor Ian Kidman was able to attend and provide us with some history of his family’s firm. A further reminder of the past was provided by a pictorial display of toys from the 1930’s.
Friends and supporters kindly donated a large collection of books for us to sell on our book stall. We ran a traditional lucky-dip bran tub for children who were also offered a literary quiz based around a set of books in the library. Joy Rutherford provided an interactive talk about illustrating children’s books which really captured the attention of children at the event.
A quartet of sax musicians provided a great selection of songs for much of the afternoon after which two teenage girls from Chesterton Community College brought their guitars and voices to add to the atmosphere of the occasion.
A special 80th anniversary cake cut for us by local resident and library user Ray Abraham (who is in his 80’s) and Jasper Osler (aged 8), with assistance from this year’s Mayor of Cambridge, George Pippas.
To ensure that our wonderful library building remains in our memories we have commissioned a painting from the renowned, and local artist, Nicholas Juett. At the end of the afternoon, Nicholas was able to provide us with a talk about the painting he is planning and got us to provide feedback on his ideas for it.
