Gateshead Libraries mark 100-year milestone
The team behind Gateshead Central Library celebrated its big birthday with a fun-filled event.
Gateshead Libraries marked the 100th anniversary of Gateshead Central Library with a vibrant celebration over the weekend.
The event brought together residents, families, artists and special guests for a full programme of cultural and creative activities.
This included captivating sessions with Storyteller‑in‑Residence Chris Adriaanse, who led visitors through imaginative fairytales, as well as collage‑making and illustration workshops delivered by local artists. The library's MakerPlace - equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters and other digital making tools - was used throughout the day for creating buttons and bookmarks throughout the day.
Later in the afternoon, history buffs enjoyed guided tours of the historic building, exploring its unique architecture and learning about the stories behind its 100‑year legacy.
A standout for the celebration was welcoming popular crime writer Peter James, accompanied by actor Richie Campbell, star of ITV's Grace, to a 'Meet the Author' session which saw the library's lecture room packed out for a lively discussion.
Reflecting on the milestone, Councillor Angela Douglas, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Tourism, said: "Gateshead Central Library has been such a special part of our borough for a century.
"It has seamlessly adapted as what our residents want and need have changed. It's something only a handful of spaces can celebrate, and why the library is still so loved to this day. It was wonderful to mark this milestone with an unforgettable celebration alongside our community."
And the fun isn't over yet! The library team have lots more planned throughout the year to nod to its 100th year at the heart of the community. View the full programme and further details can be found on our social media channels.
The team behind Gateshead Central Library celebrated its big birthday with a fun-filled event.
Gateshead Libraries marked the 100th anniversary of Gateshead Central Library with a vibrant celebration over the weekend.
The event brought together residents, families, artists and special guests for a full programme of cultural and creative activities.
This included captivating sessions with Storyteller‑in‑Residence Chris Adriaanse, who led visitors through imaginative fairytales, as well as collage‑making and illustration workshops delivered by local artists. The library's MakerPlace - equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters and other digital making tools - was used throughout the day for creating buttons and bookmarks throughout the day.
Later in the afternoon, history buffs enjoyed guided tours of the historic building, exploring its unique architecture and learning about the stories behind its 100‑year legacy.
A standout for the celebration was welcoming popular crime writer Peter James, accompanied by actor Richie Campbell, star of ITV's Grace, to a 'Meet the Author' session which saw the library's lecture room packed out for a lively discussion.
Reflecting on the milestone, Councillor Angela Douglas, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Tourism, said: "Gateshead Central Library has been such a special part of our borough for a century.
"It has seamlessly adapted as what our residents want and need have changed. It's something only a handful of spaces can celebrate, and why the library is still so loved to this day. It was wonderful to mark this milestone with an unforgettable celebration alongside our community."
And the fun isn't over yet! The library team have lots more planned throughout the year to nod to its 100th year at the heart of the community. View the full programme and further details can be found on our social media channels.
