Posted on 4 March 2015
On Sunday the 8th of March, Gregynog Hall will open the doors of its Library to the general public in celebration of World Book Day (which takes place earlier on in the week on the 5th). A fantastic opportunity to browse the Library’s extensive and eclectic book collection, it is also an opportunity to see some of the rare examples of Gwasg Gregynog books on display.
The books on open access in the west corridor and in the Thomas Jones Library and Dora Herbert Jones Library are the most visible part of a substantial collection of books and archive material held at Gregynog. Many of the books once belonged to the Davies sisters, although most of the general non-fiction collection has been acquired since the 1960s when the University of Wales took over the hall.
In addition, a considerable number of documents and other items relating to the history of the house have been collected over the years and these are now listed and stored securely. This includes a full set of Gregynog Press and Gwasg Gregynog publications – a number of which will be specially taken out of storage to view and admire on the day.
As well as the opportunity to browse the collection, Mary Oldham, the Librarian at Gregynog will also be presenting a number of informal talks about the books, Gwasg Gregynog and the history of the Hall. She will also talk about the Library itself and its collections, including the Library’s Welsh collection.
Speaking about the event, Mary explained:
“Celebrating World Book Day in this way gives Gregynog an exciting opportunity to show off its wonderful library and its collections of fine, hand printed and bound books, including those published by the Gregynog Press and Gwasg Gregynog.”
Running from 12pm – 4pm, entry to the Hall will be free all day.
As well as visiting the Library, visitors may want to make a day of it and take a stroll around the renowned Grade 1 listed formal gardens, or explore the 750 acre Estate on one of its formal or woodland walks. The Courtyard Café will also be open serving homemade, freshly prepared dishes including traditional Welsh high teas, sandwiches and hot lunches.
For more information about visiting Gregynog, please visit their Website – www.gregynog.org