Alderney Library. Org

Background.

Most of our readers will be aware of the history of the Library, either through personal experience or through articles in the Alderney Journal, the Alderney Society Bulletin, or The Guernsey Press. But there may be newcomers to the island who are not aware of how, in 1949, a gift of 1,500 books resulted in the creation of a library in Alderney of real distinction.

In the 51 years since its beginning, the Library has seen many changes. It has moved from premises in Ollivier Street to a house in High Street and thence, in 1961, to the Island Hall.
It has been desperately short of money over the years but has received generous grants and donations from high-street banks, charitable trusts and individuals. Currently, it is in receipt of a small annual grant from the States, which is much appreciated and has enabled it to survive. There has been an enormous increase in the number of books available, the introduction of a video section, a growing collection of audiobooks, and a number of CD ROMs. The children's room has been transformed, thanks to the generosity of the local community, and the office equipment has been updated over the years.

The management of the Library is organised by a committee of approximately 10 members, under the leadership of a chairman, all of whom can serve up to 3 years in one position. The Library is, and always has been, staffed entirely by volunteers, of which there are currently over 50.

In January (2001), an article appeared in the Journal appealing for funds for the implementation of the plans for the additional space on the first floor of the Island Hall and for the installation of a lift so that the Library facilities could be made available to all. Then, in April, there was an article setting out the possibility of Alderney having a purpose-built library.Speculation was rife. Would we wake up in the cold light of dawn and find it was just a dream or was this dream really going to come true?

Redevelopment Plans.

These are the facts. A site behind the Island Hall has been identified and plans have been drawn up. The States of Alderney has given a Letter of Intent to grant a 99-year lease on the plot. Building permission was granted at the October meeting of the Building and Development Control Committee. The Lloyds TSB Foundation for the Channel Islands has made a substantial financial pledge. The reception desk and the installation of central heating, together with other specific items, have been promised by local businesses and organisations. Furthermore, the starting date for the Library building is not dependent on any plans the States of Alderney may have regarding the future of the Island Hall.

It is now, with a sense of excitement and anticipation, that I can reveal that the die is cast and the decision has been taken to build a library worthy of the community it serves. The appeal for financial help has been launched and the target is £200,000 plus. We are asking everyone- resident and non-resident, past and present- who knows and loves the Island to help us raise the necessary funds. It is a great deal of money and it would be unrealistic to expect the local community to come up with that amount. But, as can be read in the previous paragraph, we have already received firm pledges of assistance, and now that the decision has been taken we will spread our net wider. Charitable trusts, banks, businesses, universities, publishers- all will receive our promotional pack. A professional promotional video has been produced by Johnny Fielder, copies of which are available in the Library.

You will see in the drawing displayed in the library window at the top of the stairs our vision for the future: a single-storey, purpose -built library. A library accessible to all, including the elderly who have difficulty with stairs, those in wheelchairs, young mums with prams- in fact, all those who at present are excluded.

The Library Interior

Plans for the interior are in the preliminary stage but will include special designated areas for:

a) The visually handicapped. Audiobooks and large print books will be available, and possibly a magnifier machine.

b) The children. Their present shelves, carpet, soft furnishings and furniture will all be incorporated into the new premises.

c) A reference/reading room for quiet study.

d) A workroom/office.

Summary.

The island community deserves a purpose-built library, and, with commitment, dedication and hard work, it can be achieved. The Library is one of the brightest jewels in Alderney's crown. We must take this opportunity to ensure and enhance its future.

The Library Committee would like to express its appreciation for the help and co-operation that it has received from States Members and civil servants. Their advice and support have been invaluable.

It is with great sadness and shock that everyone connected with the Library learnt of the sudden death of Johnny Fielder. A professional to his finger tips Johnny, an award-winning producer/director in the world of broadcasting, gave his expertise, his experience and his time freely to the Library Redevelopment project, and his inspiration and drive will be sadly missed. His support was invaluable and we owe him an enormous debt of gratitude.

SUE HARDY