Garrison Library
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Founded in 1793 by Colonel John Drinkwater and officially opened in 1804 by the Duke of Kent, the Garrison Library is a prime illustration of how libraries provide a neutral and unpretentious retreat for anyone with a hunger for knowledge and a respect for information.
Gibraltar has a history of being a divided nation, the most famous divide being between the British and Spanish residents but also between the political left and right wings and the RAF and Navy. Since its opening two hundred years ago, the Garrison Library has provided a neutral bubble away from political division.
The library serves as the head quarters and archive service of the Gibraltar Chronicle, the world's second oldest English language newspaper.
The Garrison is modest-sized but enchanting library of 35, 000 books including many rare volumes. There is an emphasis on the value of culture and travel in the library and boasts an excellent local history collection. Many lithographs and art prints are held here and even the furnishings are said to have interesting historical backgrounds.
It is not a government-owned library but rather one funded by a trust.
The building is a piece of imposing and impressive architecture and two stories high with a seating capacity of about one hundred patrons.
Lorna Swift is the current Librarian
External links
- Travel Intelligence: the Garrison Library of Gibraltar- By Barnaby Rogerson (http://www.travelintelligence.net/wsd/articles/art_3260.html)