Lanark Library Centenary Celebrations 2014 Slideshow

WHEN asked what most folk’s favourite public building in Lanark is, you can take it as read that they’ll say it’s the library in Hope Street.
Edwardian style...to celebrate centenary of the library (Picture courtesy of South Lanarkshire Council)Edwardian style...to celebrate centenary of the library (Picture courtesy of South Lanarkshire Council)
Edwardian style...to celebrate centenary of the library (Picture courtesy of South Lanarkshire Council)

It was no mystery, then, that when the library, still known locally as The Lindsay Institute, celebrated the centenary of its creation, there were many keen to go along to the ‘birthday party’.

This took the form of a special reception for members of the town’s business community, clubs and organisations plus library staff members, both past and present.

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Many turned up dressed in the fashions of the year the library opened in 1914 – that year being remembred this year for another, far more sombre centenary.

Edwardian style...to celebrate centenary of the library (Picture courtesy of South Lanarkshire Council)Edwardian style...to celebrate centenary of the library (Picture courtesy of South Lanarkshire Council)
Edwardian style...to celebrate centenary of the library (Picture courtesy of South Lanarkshire Council)

However, this far happier commemoration of 10 decades of service to the people of the Royal Burgh was hosted by a beaming Councillor Hamish Stewart, chair of South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture, who told guests of the deep fondness Lanarkians had for their local library “which has been central to life in Lanark for over four generations”.

Representing this generation was Miss Marion Donald, of Lanark, presented with a ‘Golden Library Ticket’ in recognition of her unique distinction as the longest member of the Library.

Ex-Lord Cornet and weel-kent librarian Paul Archibald entertained guests with anecdotes about the history of his workplace while Lanark poet Muriel Burns recited a specially-composed poem and local folk singer Shelagh McDonald performed a selection of songs.

The pictures featured in our slideshow were submitted by South Lanarkshire Council and the slideshow was created for your viewing pleasure by Gazette editor Julie Currie.