Residents recreate the original photograph taken 100 years ago to mark the library's 100th birthday - photo credit Darren Page
Residents recreated a landmark photograph that was taken 100 years ago to mark the opening of Bethnal Green Library.
The much-loved library which opened its doors on 13 October 1922, had a memorable photograph taken on opening day with huge crowds outside the building.
The library which is run by the council, recreated the photo with staff and users to be hung alongside the original in the entrance as part of the library's 100th anniversary celebrations on 13 October.
Deputy Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Cllr Maium Talukdar joined in the photocall.
Cllr Talukdar said:
“We are lucky to have such a beautiful building as a community resource, rich in history and providing a quiet haven where you can take time out to read, study or catch up with friends.
It was great to see so many people taking part in the anniversary photo and sharing their memories of the library.”
You can view the original photo taken in 1922 on the Idea Store website.
To mark the library’s centenary year, the council has hosted a range of events throughout the year.
Author Kate Thompson unveiled her new book The Little Wartime Library which is set in Bethnal Green Library after the photocall. She was joined by Siddy Holloway, tv presenter of Secrets of the Underground to talk about the novel. The event was rounded off with a traditional East End pearly sing-a-along.
A digital Memory Box has also been set up to collect the wonderful memories, residents have of the library. Whether it's a book that changed your life, a staff member you remember or just that the library gave you fond and unforgettable memories email them to Neal.Smith@towerhamlets.gov.uk and they will appear on the library website.
Posted on Tuesday 18th October 2022