3 Generations at Crawley Library

I arrived in Crawley aged 11, from abroad with my family. I had always been an avid reader, but had only been able to bring a few of my much loved books to our new home. Crawley library was a treasure trove of a free, never ending supply of adventures to escape into. Soon the library also became a vital source of non-fiction books, as well as a calm place away from the interruptions of younger siblings, to help me complete my Hazelwick school homework. I loved the peace and the grown-up feeling of working upstairs in the reference library.

Twenty years on and I was bringing my own children to the round children's library on Saturday mornings to satisfy their reader's appetites. We started with picture books to enjoy together and progressed to each child choosing books according to their own interests and favourite authors.

Now there's a third generation of our family enjoying Crawley library, but in its new building. When I cared for the grandchildren after school in their primary years, we'd always visit the library one afternoon a week. Most visits we'd go to the coffee shop for the treat of a drink and cake after choosing our books. The years have passed all too quickly and I presently use the library as a quiet, useful place to help the eldest granddaughter revise and practise for upcoming GCSE exams, and the coffee shop still provides a welcome treat afterwards!