Walsall Central Library, nestled in the heart of Walsall in the West Midlands, is not just a repository of books but a vibrant community hub brimming with history, culture, and knowledge. Since its grand opening in 1906, this library has been a cornerstone of intellectual and cultural life in Walsall, offering an array of services and resources to its visitors.
The roots of Walsall's library services stretch back to the early 19th century. The town's first subscription-based library was established in 1800, housed in the home of the Rev. Thomas Bowen on Rushall Street. This early library later moved to a stationer's shop on High Street in 1813. By 1831, St Matthew’s Hall became the new home for the library, boasting a reading room with over 3,000 books and a newsroom. However, financial difficulties led to the building's decline, and the book collection was relocated to a local printing shop.
The passing of the Free Libraries Act in 1859 marked a significant milestone for Walsall, making it one of the first towns in the country to adopt this new legislation. This led to the establishment of the Walsall Free Library, which was funded by council rates and voluntary subscriptions. The library found a new home in Goodall Street, near the Assembly Room, in a splendid Italianate building designed by Nichols & Morgan of West Bromwich. This building featured an entrance hall with a glass screen forming a vestibule, a library with a gallery, a large reading room, and several committee rooms.
The library continued to expand over the years, incorporating a small saddlery museum and an art gallery. A significant development occurred in 1900 when the Scottish-born American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of a new library building with a generous donation of £8,000. Designed by the architect J.S. Gibson, who also designed the Council House in Walsall, the new library took two years to build and was officially opened on 24 July 1906.
Over the decades, Walsall Central Library has undergone several expansions and modernizations to meet the evolving needs of its community. In 1965, an extension was added to the building, creating space for the E.M. Flint Gallery, named after the chairman of the Library and Art Gallery Committee. This extension also included a new children's and music library. In 1999, the Garman Ryan collection, which had been housed in the gallery, was moved to Walsall's New Art Gallery, allowing the Reference Library to relocate to the second floor. A dedicated learning center was also established within the reference library.
In 2001, further improvements were made to enhance accessibility and functionality. A new passenger lift and library entrance were installed, linking the two parts of the building together. The lending library was expanded into the vacated reference library area, and the children's library was refurbished. The main library entrance was also altered to include a glass atrium, providing a modern and welcoming entrance for visitors.
One of the most intriguing features of Walsall Central Library is the statue of Little Eva, created by the sculptor Loti Scolpi in 1870. This statue, originally thought to depict Alice in Wonderland, was later confirmed to represent Little Eva, a character from the book Uncle Tom's Cabin. The statue was purchased from the collection of Sir George Trevelyan of Welcome Manor, Stratford, and donated to the library in 1932 by Mrs. Eileen Roper in memory of her husband, W.H. Roper, a former tradesman. Little Eva has become a beloved symbol of the library, captivating visitors with her serene presence.
Today, Walsall Central Library is more than just a place to borrow books. It is a dynamic community hub that offers a wide range of services and resources. The library comprises a lending library, reference library, learning center, and children's library. It holds information in various formats and languages, including books, journals, newspapers, and magazines. Visitors can also take advantage of the library's computer facilities, making it a vital resource for research, learning, and digital access.
The library's lending section offers a diverse collection of books for all ages and interests, while the reference library provides access to a wealth of information and research materials. The learning center is a dedicated space for educational activities, workshops, and courses, supporting lifelong learning and skill development. The children's library is a vibrant and inviting space, designed to inspire a love of reading and learning in young visitors.
Walsall Central Library is also a hub of cultural and community activities. The library hosts a variety of events, including author talks, book clubs, storytelling sessions, and educational workshops. These events provide opportunities for community members to connect, learn, and engage with literature and the arts. The library's commitment to fostering a sense of community and promoting literacy makes it a cherished institution in Walsall.
In conclusion, Walsall Central Library is a testament to the town's rich history and enduring commitment to knowledge and culture. From its humble beginnings in the home of Rev. Thomas Bowen to its current status as a modern library and community hub, it has played a vital role in the intellectual and cultural life of Walsall. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a book lover, or a curious visitor, Walsall Central Library offers a welcoming and enriching experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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