Guisborough Library marks 25 years since its rebuilding after a devastating fire. Celebrations are planned for February 11, 2025.
The first library began in 1965. Both buildings have helped the community, offering information and a love for learning. Ian Wilson worked in council libraries for 40 years.
Ian started at the first library the day after its opening. He moved to Redcar Library in 1987. He witnessed the fire and helped the Guisborough team afterwards.
Ian said the fire happened on a Saturday night. He was Area Librarian for Redcar when a colleague told him about the fire. He went there right away, and the scene shocked him. Nothing could be done.
The next Monday, they used a mobile library so people could return books and asked for donations. Guisborough people were very generous, giving many books.
They used the mobile library for a while before setting up a temporary library. By 1999, they built the new library, which opened in 2000 and is still used today.
Jennifer Creek writes Occupational Therapy textbooks. Libraries have always been vital to her. Jennifer moved to Guisborough in 1993 and found the library right away.
She said her mum took her to the library weekly, and Jennifer did the same with her daughter. They became part of the community, and the fire upset them. They were glad the Council rebuilt it.
Jennifer now helps the Friends of Guisborough Library, organizing activities with librarians. They have jigsaw libraries, craft workshops, and community events. Libraries offer free information and are also community hubs.
An exhibition will mark the library’s anniversary on Feb 11, 2025, starting at 11 am. Guisborough Museum will provide images showing the old library, the fire, and new construction.
Cllr Carrie Richardson spoke about the libraries, stating they offer value to everyone and that the fire was a true tragedy. She is proud of the new building’s 25 years. Residents made the library what it is now. She invited everyone to celebrate on February 11.
People can reflect on 25 years of resilience as they celebrate community and learning.
