Published 29th September 2026
Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library celebrated the 60th anniversary of its opening on Thursday 1 October, 10.30am – 12pm with a special event.
Customers were invited to meet the wonderful library team and fellow book lovers as Kirkby Library celebrated 60 years of providing exceptional library services to the local community. We enjoyed library and heritage displays, an exhibition, as well as crafts and activities running throughout the day. An of course, no celebration was complete without a slice of cake and refreshments!
The library was opened by Rt. Hon. Dennis Howell MP in October 1966 and has remained at the heart of the community ever since. The building has seen many changes and developments over the years, including a refurbishment in 2023 to create Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library and Learning Centre.
Birthday celebrations will continue throughout September and October. The library will host a range of birthday events and activities including children’s crafts, a poetry session, talks from the Kirkby Archaeological Society, and special editions of regular events like Rattle, Rhyme and Roll and Places of Welcome.
Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library is part of Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries. Created by Nottinghamshire County Council in 2016, Inspire is also celebrating a milestone birthday in 2026, as it marks a decade of bringing together libraries, adult and community learning, music, culture, heritage, and arts under one innovative organisation.
Peter Gaw, Chief Executive Officer at Inspire commented: “I am proud of the vital service that Kirkby Library has provided to residents for the last 60 years. I encourage everyone to join the team for this well-deserved celebration”.
Find out more about Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library's birthday celebrations.
