Norfolk libraries celebrate big birthdays with programme of activities

Two Norfolk libraries are celebrating big birthdays this month, with a programme of events planned to mark the occasion. Costessey library celebrates its 60th birthday on Saturday 20 May, and North Walsham celebrates 55 years a week later.

Both libraries will have special events, including a display of historic photos of the library, for people to mark the occasion. Visitors are also invited to share their memories of the libraries.

Cllr Margaret Dewsbury, Cabinet member for Communities and Partnerships, said: "Our libraries are always evolving to be used by the community in the best possible way, and it's really interesting to be able to take a look back at where we have come from. Both Costessey and North Walsham libraries are incredibly important to their local communities and host a wide range of events for everyone, so having them celebrate such wonderful milestones is fantastic. Happy Birthday both!"

Cllr Sharon Blundell, Local Member for Costessey, said: "Costessey Library is a fantastic facility and not just a library but a community hub, it is a warm inviting facility where you can socialise. The library has some lovely groups from knit, stitch and natter on a Wednesday and story time on a Tuesday morning for our younger residents. We have wonderful supportive staff who are only too happy to help residents. On behalf of all residents in Costessey I would like to thank all past and present staff over the last 60 years for making Costessey Library such a fantastic place to visit."

Costessey Library will have the following at their celebration on the 20 May from 11am:

• Past and current staff members of the library will be able to share their memories
• A showcase of all that the library offers, including various groups which run throughout the week
• Refreshments, including a cake, will be available

Cllr Lucy Shires, Local Member for North Walsham, said: "North Walsham Library is truly a hub within our community, with huge thanks to our Library team. We are incredibly lucky to have such a busy library in our town, which is home to many groups and offers a wonderful supportive space. It is fantastic that we are celebrating fifty-five years of our library and I'm sure North Walsham will join me in thanking everyone who has been part of this team over the many years it has been open."

North Walsham Library will have the following at their celebration on the 27 May between 2pm and 3:30pm:

• Past and current staff members of the library will be able to share their memories
• A display of photographs and memories from customers
• Refreshments, including homemade cakes donated by staff, will be available

Anyone with memories or photos can share them with the libraries directly; Costessey Library can be contacted on costessey.lib@libraries.norfolk.gov.uk, and North Walsham Library can be contacted on north.walsham.lib@libraries.norfolk.gov.uk. The libraries will be open as usual during their birthday weekends, details can be found at www.norfolk.gov.uk/findalibrary. 

Members of the media who wish to attend should contact the press office.