Remembering Harry

This is the story of Harry Donkin from Lavender Gardens in Jesmond. Harry Semmons Donkin enlisted at Newcastle upon Tyne in February 1916, declaring his age as 19. He was in fact only 17 years old, 5’ 4’’ tall, weight 8 ½ stone (1.63m, 54.4…

Trick or treat?

Hallowe’en Books for Children For children, half-term must feel like a real treat – five days without school, no early morning starts and no lessons. Do parents feel the same about having their children at home all week? Never fear! If you’re looking for something…

The answer is 42!

So what is the question? As every Douglas Adams fan knows, 42 is the answer to the ultimate question: life, the universe and everything! Here at Jesmond Library, the question is not philosophical but entirely practical. 42 x £1000 is how much we need to…

Through the Library window

Have you seen our windows? We’re rather proud of them. They are one of the most striking aspects of the circular/ribbed design of Jesmond Library – the shelves set at right angles to the glass panels allow daylight to illuminate the books. And books are…

Feeling Frazzled?

It’s not surprising if you are. The last year and a half has been tough going for everyone and the consequential adverse affect on mental health is widely recognised. Many library users have told us how much they appreciated the contribution Jesmond Library made to their…

Freedom (to Read) Day

One of the great joys of volunteering in the Library is watching young children gain a love of books. We had a visit on Saturday from a young family, their first visit for over a year. The youngest child, too young to remember the last…

Top Teds!

Teddy Bear Trail, 2021 There were lots of good looking ‘Teddies’ with great names in the Trail this year.  A BIG thank you to all hosts and Trailers who have helped to make this year’s efforts very worthwhile. Woodland Mews kindly donated their ‘Big Ted’…