Library News February 2nd 2024

A few quick news snippets from the Station Library at Kents Bank:

The unveiling of the station sign (ex-British Railways ‘totem’ sign from late 50s) went reallywell with over 60 people attending. Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill, chair of Network Rail, and Councillor Roger Handley, mayor of Grange-over-Sands, did the honours. We also had the formal opening of the library itself, followed by Lancashire hotpot, chili and cakes. ITV Borders and Cumbria did a great piece on the library and the sign event.Lord Hendy (left) and Clr Handley unveil the sign

The plaque was unveiled by Lord Hendy, Chair of Network Rail, on January 19th

We’ll do a final tally in the next newsletter but we raised approximately £2,250 and the sign costs (including fees and postage, plus installation) came to £1850, not including the catering which was donated by supporters. The surplus will go into the library account and will contribute to our running costs. Thanks to everyone for their help.

We continue to get donations of some very good railway books and we’ll be heading to Scotland next week to pick up a major collection from friends in Edinburgh.

Our next open day is on Saturday February 10th, from 11.00 to 16.00. The Beach Hut Gallery next door will also be open. You can pop in for a coffee and biscuits, browse the collection, borrow books from the lending section or pick up a bargain in our Railway Book Sale.

On Wednesday February 14th railway historian and author Martin Bairstow is giving an illustrated talk on ‘Railways in the Lake District’ at 14.00 (note the afternoon start which will probably be the regular time in future) in the Library Reading Room.

Our January talk was Richard Hinchliffe on ‘Flying Scotsman in America’

It’s free (donations welcome) but please book in advance as there is limited space. Email the library on info@stationlibrary.org.uk or ring 07795 008691. We welcome offers of talks for the monthly sessions, let us know if you can help. Likewise we’re happy to give talks on the Library and the collection to groups around the North of England.

What we need: We always need good quality books on railway/transport subjects. Specialist DVDs, framed pictures. Storage material e.g. cardboard magazine holders. Printer and scanner. Volunteers to help with cataloguing the collection. Donations of cash to help with running costs (heat, light, dehumidifier, website, and – in due course – a purchasing budget for specialist items). Some items of ‘railwayana’ that add to the ‘railway feel’ of the library.

The Reading Room features a cast iron stove

We’re currently looking for a pole to fit on a shunter’s hook! Ideally 66″ inch long and and 1.8″ diameter.

The website tells you more: www.stationlibrary.org.uk

You can also like us on Facebook (Kents Bank Station Library)

 


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One response to “Library News February 2nd 2024”

  1. Mosie Wild avatar
    Mosie Wild

    Well done with what you have started and good luck for the future. Are there other libraries like this that specialise in railway resources?

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