Blue Mountains Library is celebrating its golden anniversary after serving the community for 50 years.
Public libraries have operated in the Blue Mountains since the first library branch opened its doors in Springwood in 1974.
To celebrate, Blue Mountains Library is hosting a series of activities and events for 50 days, featuring a photographic trip down memory lane, Library of the Future competition and creation of a time capsule, all culminating in a Golden Anniversary Party on Saturday 16 November at all Library branches.
Blue Mountains Mayor, Mark Greenhill said public libraries are and have always been a cornerstone of community.
“We live in a very modern world and it can often feel like every part of it is contained in the digital world. Our libraries remain relevant, and more than that, they remain vibrant community hubs,” Mayor Greenhill said.
“Libraries have always been more than a building used to house books. They are a bastion of equality and access, and they belong to all of us. They have educated us, given communities a place to thrive, and brought everyone who visits them the purest joy – a good book.
“Public libraries have evolved along with the rest of society and today’s library is a whole new world. There are still books, but there’s also a multitude of items to borrow from science kits to home energy saving kits, graphic novels to music and DVD collections, and even car manuals,” he said.
Blue Mountains City Council has six public library branches, located in Blaxland, Springwood, Lawson, Wentworth Falls, Katoomba and Blackheath. There is also a Home Library Service for isolated residents.
“There’s also an extensive collection of online resources, streaming and downloadable content, which is all free to Blue Mountains residents,” said Mayor Greenhill.
“And the results released just recently show that the Blue Mountains Library has never been more popular, or more relevant.”
Over the past year, library visitation in the Blue Mountains has increased by 36% with almost 4,000 new members welcomed.
“Whether you’re a member, a regular visitor, or you’ve never been to one of our branches, we want you to celebrate our special golden anniversary with us,” said Blue Mountains Library Manager, Vicki Edmunds.
“Visit our amazing spaces, wonder at the incredible view, study in comfort, find a new favourite author, and making the most of our welcoming and knowledgeable staff.”
Find out more about what Blue Mountains Library offers, and the anniversary activities: library.bmcc.nsw.gov.au.
