TWENTY-FIVE years on and Caernarfon library is still going strong. Herald reporter Rachel Owen met with Gwynedd’s principal librarian Hywel James to discuss how the town’s asset can live to see many more years. Caernarfon library, which stands on Pavilion Hill, was opened on May 15, 1982. Two and a half decades later, it is still a popular attraction for people of all ages and according to Hywel James, the people of Caernarfon are very proud of it. With a motto of looking forward rather than backwards, Mr James explained how exciting new plans for refurbishment will see the library carry on strong. He said: “We remember the past 25 years fondly, but are always looking to the future to see how we can improve this facility. “The library is in a fairly healthy state and will continue to be so if we invest in the right sort of books. “The future is bright, it is not a doom and gloom story from where we are standing.” Compared to other town libraries, including Aberystwyth and Colwyn Bay, Caernarfon boasts a comparatively modern building. Hywel said: “The image of the library as dusty, gloomy places is not true these days. “Most, even the older ones, are bright and colourful inside and more in line with what people want. “Even libraries have to do a bit of marketing in this day and age.” So, with the image of librarians insisting that everybody “shhhh” and turn off their mobile phones, what have been the major changes over the years? Hywel explained: “Well, for a start the ‘shhhh’ tag isn’t the case anymore, mobile phones are allowed – within reason. “But the biggest change has been the significant growth in computer and internet use. “It has been a welcome growth year on year. Our aim for the future is to offer more quality resources over the web, this is the way we’re heading. “For example, by having an Oxford dictionary online, which can be accessed at home with a library account number or at the library itself.” The team behind Caernarfon library have big plans for future refurbishment and will be looking at whether the need for certain sections, such as the large reference room, is in line with what people use today. He said: “Twenty-five years ago, people would have been happy to come in here and search through reference books. Now they want things to be happening at the library – story-telling, author visits – expectations are rising.” But, attendance figures remain stable. “Every year we compile a survey of who uses the library and we have, as has always been the case, a wide cross-section. “The stereotype of the very young or very old is simply not true, these age groups do use it the most due to their lifestyle, but we get a range of people from all ages and social class. “More women use it than men but this isn’t unique to Caernarfon.” Forging strong links with the future generations, school pupils across Gwynedd, this principal librarian is confident that the library will last to serve Caernarfon well into the future. rachel.owen | 
