Rebecca Gough THE 1970s were a time of political activism, environmentalism, and aviation history. But a small Norfolk town was making its own mark as its library was built.

Rebecca Gough

THE 1970s were a time of political activism, environmentalism, and aviation history. But a small Norfolk town was making its own mark as its library was built.

Forty years later and staff at the Thetford library, in Raymond Street, are celebrating the anniversary with a series of activities.

Former members of staff, including its longest serving worker, and library users will join a list of dignitaries for the cutting of the cake, children's activities and a photographic exhibition on Sunday .

Chairman of Norfolk County Council, which runs the library, said: “It's great to be celebrating Thetford Library's 40 years at the heart of the local community.

“Libraries are even more important today than they were in 1970, not only do they offer books but also DVDs, CDs, internet and PC access and are a valuable information point for the whole community.

“The staff take this role very seriously, and the result is a welcoming library that really encourages people to visit and spend time browsing for books, using the PCs and meeting rooms or attending one of the many free events and activities.”

The photographic exhibition will include photographs of how the library has changed over the past 40 years and youngsters can take part in a free activity session based on a birthday theme.

Thetford east councillor, Marion Chapman-Allen, said the impact of a library on the community could not be underestimated.

“It is truly wonderful to see libraries such as Thetford maintaining their traditional role of encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy all the things the library has to offer, including reading.”

The library's longest serving member of staff, Sue Cooper, who has worked at Thetford library since the mid 1980s, will also mark the occasion by cutting the birthday cake.

Mike Brindle, councillor for Thetford West added: “This library is treasured by a lot of people living in and around Thetford, and people who borrowed books from it as children are now bringing their children here.

“It's a brilliant place and I would encourage local people who haven't been in its 40 years so far to drop in soon to see what being a library member in Thetford could offer them.”

To find out more about local library services, and how to join for free, visit www.libraries.norfolk.gov.uk