Hove Library Centenary
A letter from the Queen? A book would perhaps be more appropriate; for this year, Hove Library turns one hundred.
The story starts in neighbouring Brighton when a reference library was created in the Royal Pavilion, later opening to the public in 1873. Although it would have been hard to match the Pavilion’s lavish settings, Hove’s first library at 11 Grand Avenue would have been more than adequate upon its opening in 1892. A move to purpose-built premises soon became necessary though and Andrew Carnegie, the Scottish-born American steel baron, made the move possible.
Various celebrations are planned for the birthday but Natalie Gore brought the best present in the form of a slick but quirky mural in the children’s section. I don’t know yet what I’ll be bringing to the party. A campaign for a new cupola perhaps?
