Here's the final part of our A-Z of the Library, revealing some its hidden secrets. What will you discover...
S is for... School Services
Our Schools Team provides resources and professional support to schools in the Bailiwick. From information literacy sessions and curriculum project loans, to library visits and book groups. We work closely with curriculum leads and teachers with school library responsibilities to support children in their development as independent learners, as well as encouraging a love of reading for pleasure.
T is for... Tiles
Have you noticed the tiled floor in reception? The tiles beneath your feet are original, although they have been taken up and re-laid during recent renovations. If you look at the large decorative panel in the centre of the floor, some of the small triangular tiles have supposedly been set upside down. It was thought to bring good luck!
U is for... Umbrella
According to archived Library records, in 1919 the Library had to pay the cost of re-covering a staff member’s umbrella because it had been damaged by the Library cat. In 1932 an advertisement appeared inviting visitors to join the library for the enjoyment to be had from membership, referring to it as a rendezvous in the centre of Town - “always a boon but invaluable on a wet day.” (Boon means something beneficial or helpful).
V is for... Views
Whether you’re popping into the library to renew your books or staying a bit longer to sit and read, you will have noticed our fantastic central location. The main Library building is three storeys high, and the front windows have a great view over Market Square. Come rain or shine, the light in the Assembly Room is spectacular and it’s a great place to sit and watch the hustle and bustle of Town below.
W is for... Wood
The beam set on the landing staircase between the first and second floors was acquired by John Pitts, a good friend of Thomas Guille and Frederick Allès. He was the original curator of the Guille-Allès Library and Museum. John Pitts saw the beam being removed from a house on the High Street due for demolition and stored it until 1903 when it was installed in the Library. The inscription on the beam translates as “The peace of God be within, made the 16th October 1578 by Andrew Monamy”, so it was over 300 years old at the time.
X is for... X
Did you know we have a collection of printed sheet music and music books available to borrow here at the Library? Just select 'printed music' from the list in 'media type' in the advance search and you'll find everything from piano music to Broadway hits and ukele songs. Plus sheet music for Ed Sheeran's X album for piano, vocals and guitar!
Y is for... You
The Guille-Allès Library has been at the heart of life in Guernsey for over 130 years. Everything we do is guided by one purpose – to serve the people of our community. This is crystallised by our Mission Statement. To contribute to the enjoyment and inspiration, cultural values and learning potential of the people of the Bailiwick, by making all kinds of knowledge, information and works of the imagination readily available to them. You can read more about our mission here.
Z is for... Zebra
That’s Not My Zebra is one of thousands of books in our collection suitable for babies, tots and children. Visit the Children’s Library on the first floor to explore the cosy reading nooks, story circle and grassy reading platforms perfect for little ones. The Library runs lots of activities for children, both in town and out in the community. Visit the events page to find out what’s happening near you.