“Officially opened on Saturday 16 May 1964,” echoes in my mind. Today we explore Guildford Library. It stands as a testament to community and the power of knowledge.
In February 1963, discussions began about building a new library in Guildford. Parramatta City Councillors wanted it near the Guildford Car Park entrance on Railway Terrace. The library’s construction was funded largely by the sale of the Parramatta School of Arts. That sale raised £75,000.
Initially, the Guildford Library was to open on Saturday 30 May. This was later changed to 16 May 1964. The opening guest list was extensive. It included mayors, aldermen, library board members, and church representatives. Principals of neighboring schools also attended.
In October 1967, Colin Williams’ “Bombo Quarry” was presented to the Guildford Librarian. This award-winning painting was to be displayed in the library.
New extensions were proposed in January 1993. Plans included external toilets. In May 1994, a mural art piece was approved for the library extension wall. Young people and youth art workers would create it.
Guildford Library was renovated. It then reopened on Monday 28 August. The official opening took place on Saturday 26 August. Shelves were rearranged around a central leisure area. Furniture was upgraded. The stock looked terrific. Vanessa and Meagan purchased and processed everything.
A Gala day was held on 28 August. It publicized the reopening of Guildford Library. Displays and giveaways greeted visitors. There was a pre-school story time with face painting. Afternoon activities included crafts and story time. “Pre-loved” books were sold at bargain prices.
Throughout the 1990s, Guildford Branch Library adopted new technologies. These included learning languages multi-media kits and a video collection. A book security system was also installed.
Guildford Branch Library has hosted many programs. These programs cater to children and adults. The Paint Parra REaD campaign encourages early reading habits. There were also author talks. The library has even hosted “See the stars at Guildford Light from a Distant Star”. This was part of National Science Week. Evening story time allowed kids to wear pyjamas. They enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies. Computer courses were available for beginners and intermediate users. Positive parenting sessions taught strategies for managing children’s behavior. Guildford Branch Library participated in NAIDOC Week events. These included traditional music, language, and storytelling. National Recycling Week and Seniors Week activities were also held. Manga drawing workshops and Taronga Mobile Zoo visits proved popular. Law Week Talks in Arabic served Guildford’s culturally diverse population.
In 2016, ownership of Guildford Branch Library transferred to Cumberland City Council. This was a result of NSW Local Government Amalgamations.
Today Guildford Library continues to serve its community. It offers a wide range of resources. The library’s current address is Railway Terrace, Guildford. You can reach them at 8757 9063. Opening hours vary. It is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Thursday hours extend to 8 pm. Saturday hours are from 9:30 am to 12 noon. Borrowed items can be returned in the after-hours return chute.
From its humble beginnings to its modern amenities, Guildford Library stands as a beacon of knowledge and community in the heart of Guildford.