The organisation’s council is on a mission to revive community awareness and use of what it believes to be the island’s most important resource for family history research. It aims to boost footfall by renovating under-utilised spaces for events and meetings, and raise funds at the same time.
‘We’re devising a programme of activity ranging from small-scale celebrations to weddings and corporate away-days,’ said council chairman Rob Grant.
‘Who wouldn’t enjoy a "Pimms at The Priaulx" get-together in our stunning garden?’
The 250-year-old building was gifted to the island 130 years ago by wealthy merchant Osmond Priaulx, along with Candie Gardens.
Though the gardens were bought by the States, the library remains gifted to the people of Guernsey – harbouring the island’s history in its vast, unique collections of articles, books and photographs.
While salaries of the library’s staff are met by States funding, repair and upgrading of the historic building has to be met by grants and donations.
‘What we really want to focus on is for islanders to see the Priaulx as an accessible community hub,’ said Mr Grant.
‘No one needs to be a member to visit or use the premises.’
The organisation has already embraced digital research and the library’s online platform is used daily by people around the world. Mr Grant said the facility was especially useful for US and Australian connections with the island.
‘The council has recognised the need to move forward and are looking 30 years ahead to make sure that it remains and develops appropriately at the heart of our community and more widely,’ he said.
‘If you are the CEO of a company with Guernsey links or are curious about your corporate or family history, we can help.’
Moves to boost the library’s profile began at a reception offered by Lt-Governor Sir Richard Cripwell at Government House, attended by some 80 corporates and individuals.
‘We need the Priaulx to continue to provide inspiration, to inform, to promote Guernsey around the globe and to protect the knowledge of these islands,’ Sir Richard told the guests.
‘When I visit, which I do whenever possible, it confirms that the Priaulx is an incredible institution for anyone as curious as me. I have a huge amount of fondness for it.
'It provides a constant source of fascination and inspiration to dig even deeper into Guernsey life and all of the connections beyond.’
Anyone interested in finding out more can email info@priaulxlibrary.gg.
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