Stroud Library's 1st Anniversary

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Stroud Library is marking it's first significant milestone as it celebrates the one year anniversary of its brand-new space at Five Valleys Shopping Centre. Over the past year, the library has become a thriving hub for the local community, and now, it’s time to celebrate with a series of engaging activities and special events.

Event Schedule:

Ruby Tuesday Tea Party (For Over 60s) – Tuesday, April 1st (2:00 - 4:00 pm)

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of delightful conversation and light refreshments, join us for live music and sing-along at 2:30pm. Drop in, no need to RSVP!

Author Talks & Workshops – Wednesday April 2nd (10:30am - 11:30am)

Meet Kat Ailes and Elisa Lodato, who will share how they wrote their debut novels as new parents.

Lab Event: Laser Cut a Wooden Name Book Keyring – Thursday, April 3rd (3:30-4:30 pm)

Experience hands-on creativity and innovation in our cutting-edge Lab.

A Year of Growth: Library Visitor Stats

Since opening our new space, visitor numbers have nearly DOUBLED compared to last year!

The numbers speak for themselves:

April–June: 35,778 visitors (up from 18,420!)
July–September: 36,065 visitors (up from 24,128!)
October–December: 35,895 visitors (up from 20,443!)

That’s 40-90% more visitors each month enjoying our books, events, and community space!

What Our Visitors Are Saying

📢 "Absolutely amazing, a hub for Stroud, not just a library"

📢 "The old library was so comfortable, I was reticent about the new library. However, having visited the new site, it has inspired me to get reading again"

📢 "Such a lovely feel in here, relaxed and community focused."

📢 "Beautiful! Lovely staff & so modern. Just what Stroud needs!"

📢 "This space has given books the respect they deserve - well done to everyone involved!"

📢 "This new space is lovely, so calming. Great to see libraries being invested in - we will be in more often!"

📢 "The library is bright, happening, embracing of all."

📢 "We love it here! Everyone is always so friendly and helpful. Amazing to have such access to books."

📢 "Such a wonderful space for me and my daughter. She is just starting to explore and this is a great, safe space for her."

📢 "The library is my lifeline"

📢 "Huge thanks to you all for creating a sanctuary for families"

📢 "Thanks for being so amazing this year; patient, kind and providing so much entertainment for my young children and a place for me to escape as well! Such a valuable resource!"

Beyond the scheduled events, guests are encouraged to browse the library’s extensive book collection, discovering new reads or rediscovering old favourites. The anniversary celebration also serves as a great opportunity for those who haven’t yet visited to explore the beautifully renovated library, now situated in the heart of the Five Valleys Shopping Centre.

Whether you’re a long-time library visitor or discovering it for the first time, the anniversary celebration is the perfect occasion to experience everything Stroud Library has to offer.

Don’t miss out on this vibrant and community-driven celebration!