Cake and a cuppa as libraries turn 75


CLARENCE Valley libraries joined public libraries across the state this week to celebrate the birth of free public libraries in New South Wales.

Clarence Valley libraries hosted a celebration event with a morning tea in the Sir Earle Page Library and Education Centre in Grafton to mark the 75th anniversary of the NSW Library Act, the landmark legislation that led to the provision of free public library services for the people of NSW.

Clarence regional librarian, Kathryn Breward, said people came to show their support for libraries in the Clarence Valley and to learn a little history of their library service over a cuppa and a piece of cake.

The celebrations were part of a state-wide program of events led by the State Library of NSW to commemorate this historic milestone and to recognise the important role public libraries play in the community.

Since the passage of the Act in 1939, the number of public libraries in New South Wales has grown from two – Broken Hill and Sydney – to more than 360, with 3.2 million members and more than 35 million people visiting libraries each year.

Ms Breward said the Clarence Valley Council adopted the Act in what was Grafton in 1944 (one of the earliest to do so) and its first library opened in 1945. Today Clarence Valley libraries have more than 205,026 through its doors annually with more than 20,000 library members taking part in a range of
programs from pre-school story times, knitting groups, book clubs, family history research, author visits, writing workshops, games events, school holiday activities and much more..

Mayor Richie Williamson said libraries were an important asset to the wellbeing of any community. “Culturally, socially, economically and educationally libraries enhance the lives of all who participate and access the services on offer,” he said. “This November we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the NSW Library Act, which led to the network of free public libraries we all enjoy today.

For more information visit Clarence Valley Council