Libraries invite residents to step back in time this Local and Community History Month

Residents across Denbighshire are being encouraged to discover the rich history of their communities this May as libraries across the county celebrate Local and Community History Month with a range of free events, activities and resources.

From exploring fascinating archive collections to trying out local history-themed family activities, there are plenty of opportunities for people of all ages to uncover stories from the past through their local library.

Throughout May, North East Wales Archives will be hosting a series of ‘Ask the Archivist’ sessions, offering residents the chance to find out more about archive collections and how to access them.

Sessions will take place at:

• Rhyl Library on Tuesday 12 May from 10am to 12pm; and at
• Corwen Library on Monday 18 May from 10am to 12pm.

Families can also enjoy a special ‘Little Time Travellers’ event at Denbigh Library on Friday 29 May from 12pm to 2pm, featuring local history-themed crafts, games and dressing up activities.

Meanwhile, visitors to Rhuddlan Library can explore a new display created by Rhuddlan Local History Society, looking at the impact of the General Strike of May 1926 on the local community.

Rhyl Library will also be marking its 40th birthday on 21 May, inviting residents to discover how libraries have changed since the 1980s and how they continue to support communities today.

The library has recently installed a new Digital Microfilm Scanner, purchased through the National Library of Wales Small Grants Scheme. The scanner provides access to Rhyl Library’s unique collection of local newspapers on microfilm, including the Rhyl Record from 1856 to 1922 and the Rhyl Journal from 1922 to 2007.

Digital Microfilm Scanner

These historic newspapers offer a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in the local area and how national and regional events shaped communities over the years. The new scanner allows customers to view and print high-quality digital images from the collection. Residents can find out more at special drop-in events on Friday 22 May and Friday 29 May from 10am to 12pm.

Library members can also access family history resources including Ancestry.com and Find My Past free of charge on library computers.

Another popular resource available through libraries is BFI Replay, a free video-on-demand service featuring thousands of digitised films and television programmes from the BFI National Archive and regional film archives across the UK. Highlights include historic footage of pupils leaving Christchurch School in Rhyl in 1902 and circus elephants walking through Denbigh after arriving by train in 1960.

Lead Member for Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage, Councillor Emrys Wynne, said:

“Local libraries are much more than places to borrow books — they are gateways to the stories, memories and history that have shaped our communities. Local and Community History Month is a wonderful opportunity for residents of all ages to explore the amazing resources available in our libraries, discover something new about where they live, and enjoy some fantastic free activities along the way.

“Whether you are researching your family history, exploring old newspapers, speaking with archivists or simply enjoying historic films and photographs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We would encourage residents to visit their local library this May and take a step back into the past.”

For more information about events and activities taking place in Denbighshire libraries, visit: Denbighshire Libraries⁠.