Ripon Library, which received a royal seal of approval, when the then Prince of Wales formally opened it two decades ago, is holding a double celebration today.

The Prince, who was proclaimed as King Charles III last month, was made a Freeman of the City in October 2002, in appreciation of his ‘unique contribution to the regeneration of Ripon.’

Part of that regeneration included the opening of a new library and the anniversary of his visit is being celebrated, alongside the fifth birthday of the Ripon Library Action Group (RLAG), whose volunteers work in partnership with permanent staff, to support the provision of services to the community.

The plaque at Ripon Town Hall which commemorates the then Prince of Wales being made a Freeman of the City

To celebrate both the library’s 20th anniversary and the partnership with RLAG, there will be a birthday party for invited guests this afternoon.

Sarah Jacques, chair of trustees of RLAG, said:

“I am really proud of the impact that the Library has in the city and surrounding villages.  We are statistically one of the most used and most successful libraries in the county.  That is down to the commitment of both the staff and volunteers working closely together.”

The library is central to much that happens in the city, including working closely with the theatre festival, poetry festival, Ripon Museum Trust, the YMCA and others on youth development.

It is also central to children’s education, going out to schools and running the summer reading challenge every year.

Ms Jacques added

“The library and our volunteers were honoured in the recent St Wilfrid’s stars scheme run by Ripon Together.  It was wonderful to see that the city appreciates what we do for everyone.”