Maidenhead Library prepares for 50th anniversary

Maidenhead Library will be turning 50 next month and there will be plenty of events to celebrate the town centre landmark including exhibitions, author talks, live music, the Wombles and even a 1970s silent disco.

Officially opened in July 1973 by Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, Maidenhead Library is today Grade II-listed for its architectural design and remains a hub for the Maidenhead community and the borough’s library service.

The Royal Borough’s Library Service is inviting the whole community to join in marking this golden anniversary during the week of July 17, culminating in a day of celebrations on Friday, July 21.

During the week, there will be a range of activities for different ages, with full details available online or from the library. 

Four exhibitions will run throughout the week - one will explore the building’s history with old photos, facts and ephemera. 

Another will showcase artwork by the autism group which meets at the library. 

A third will showcase bestselling books since 1973, and a fourth will display memorabilia relating to the Wombles, who are celebrating 50 years of their first TV appearance. 

For adults, there will be talks by locally based Sunday Times Top 10 Bestseller novelist Gill Hornby on Monday, July 17 and on Wednesday, July 19 by author and screenwriter Robert Thorogood, the creator of TV series Death in Paradise and author of The Marlow Murder Club.

A talk exploring the architecture of the building and the 1970s will take place on Tuesday, July 18. 

Children will be catered for too, with a fun workshop on Thursday, July 20 by children’s writing duo Jan Burchett and Sara Vogler, followed on Friday, July 21 by a Wombles story-time and crafts with costume characters and face-painting alongside retro children’s games and toys.

For the older generation, there will be a 1970s sing-along karaoke and reminiscence morning on Thursday, July 20, including a special visit from Wombles characters plus some clips from their popular show as well as a celebratory cake.

All events are free but most need to be booked on the council website or by calling the library on 01628 796969 as spaces are limited.

Exhibitions do not need to be booked.

If you have Wombles memorabilia to loan for the exhibition, please email maidenhead.library@rbwm.gov.uk or speak to a member of staff.

Tickets can be found at https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/home/leisure-and-culture/libraries/maidenhead-library-50th-birthday-celebrations