THIS autumn Hampshire Libraries is marking its centenary of providing a public library service in the county, and residents are invited to join the celebrations.

Whether that’s by attending an event at one of the county council’s 40 libraries, contributing to a "letter to libraries" display or enjoying one of the books in the special collection. 

Hampshire has one of the largest networks of libraries in the country and provides communities with access to books, learning resources and a wide range of services that support wellbeing and health. Last year, Hampshire Libraries welcomed 3.3 million visitors and loaned over 6.1 million items. 

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The Arc, Winchester, previously the Winchester Discovery Centre (Image: Hampshire Cultural Trust) Hampshire County Council's cabinet member for education, Councillor Steve Forster, said: “It’s a testament to the enduring value communities place on libraries that we have reached this 100-year milestone. As well as being go-to places for discovering new books, meeting friends, and finding a quiet spot to study or relax, libraries are warm and welcoming spaces that provide access to vital services and support people’s health and well-being. They are the heart of our communities, where everyone is welcome to explore, connect and grow together.” 

An Act of Parliament in 1919 gave local councils library powers and, in 1924, a statutory public Library Service was established in Hampshire by the County Council. Since then, the service has changed and evolved over the decades to meet the needs and priorities of local communities. 

To celebrate the start of Hampshire’s library service 100 years ago, residents are invited to visit their local branch to share what they love about their library as part of a centenary craft project. These messages will help create a ‘letter to libraries’ display, which will be on show at each branch. 

Cllr Forster added: “Whether it’s the books, the warm welcome you receive, or the Rhymetime sing-along, we want to hear about what you love most about libraries. Maybe it’s the friends you meet in the craft club, the jigsaws and board games, or the regular library visit.

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"It could be the free adult courses, the helpful volunteers, or the digital library. The aim of this letter is to help us understand what our communities value most about their library.” 

From Saturday, October 19, until Saturday, November 2, all the public libraries in Hampshire will be hosting celebratory events and activities. From special story times and centenary-inspired crafting to adult treasure hunts and balloon modelling – there’s something for everyone. Full listings can be found on the website or residents can visit their local library to find out what is taking place.  

There is also a Centenary Book Collection, comprising of ten titles chosen by library teams, inspired by books, readers, authors, libraries, bookshops and publishers. Residents can find the collection in their local library or via the BorrowBox digital library app.  


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