Caroline
Say hi to Caroline. She's next in our line up of Centenary Champions. Caroline hasn't been visiting Gateshead Central Library for too long, but even in a short amount of time she's been taken in by its magic.
Around September 2025, she first visited to take part in sessions at the MakerPlace - she's a big fan of the different crafts you can make there. Since then, she's printed her own designs on t-shirts, made a cork notebook and even made gifts for family and friends for special occasions. Part of what she enjoys most about it is having a creative outlet and all the knowledge you get from the friendly team.
In fact, those same colleagues have played a big role in Caroline becoming somewhat of a regular. She shared how she doesn't usually venture out much on her own, but here it felt different because of the welcoming vibes the team create.
Mulling over what the library might be like in the future, Caroline hopes the Central Library keeps going for the next 100 years and beyond, and keeps developing into a community hub and a safe place for generations to come.
Describing Gateshead Central Library in three words, Caroline said its "warm, welcoming and friendly."