In an age where libraries are often seen as declining in relevance, Charlotteville’s Public Library continues to be a pillar in the community, having existed for 70 years and continuing strong.
Charlottevillians decided to celebrate this momentous achievement with a torch run, bonfire and cultural showcase on Monday.
So purposeful was it that Charlotteville’s abundance of talent was on display in celebration, from song to dance, drums, monologue and spoken word.
Internationally recognised economist Dr. Vanus James is among many scholars from Charlotteville, who credit the library as the starting point of their academic journeys.
“Charlotteville is known and has become known as one of the great villages producing high-quality intellectuals all over the Caribbean, and that is fundamentally on account of the Charlotteville Library. It has turned the village into a giant of intellectual experience.”
The library first opened its doors on May 11th, 1956.
Its first librarian was Arthur Moore, who ensured that although Charlotteville is the most distant village in Tobago, its people were exposed to education.
For cultural stalwart Annette Alfred, who was one of the first members of the library at age 11, it was the glue that held the community together.
“The library is a mark for Charlotteville people. We used it in our time, and we showed that we used it. I would like Charlotteville to continue to show they appreciate and have benefited from the library.”
Charlotteville intends to keep its library and evolve with the times, embracing new technology and even artificial intelligence.
THA Secretary of Education, Skills and Innovation, Orlando Kerr, has pledged continued support while urging parents to encourage reading among the younger generation.
“But we believe that if children are exposed to literature where they can experience things vicariously, we believe that many of the issues that we are facing, we will not have challenges anymore.”
Surprise guest Yung Bredda also joined the festivities, much to the delight of the younger attendees.