THE popular programme of free winter events at Crediton Library continues with another talk on local history.

On Friday, February 21, at 7pm, library staff member William Mearns will be presenting an illustrated talk on the history of the library service in Devon, with a focus on some interesting stories from Devon.

Devon Libraries are celebrating their centenary this year, and as you might expect there have been many changes over the 100 years that they have been serving the community.

Did you know, for example, that Crediton used to have its own mobile library, called the Creedy Mobile? Did you visit the library when it was in the front room of The Kirton Cow?

William has been researching the history of the libraries in Devon for some time and has uncovered some surprising and amusing stories, some of which he will share during the talk.

For example, the librarian from which branch stormed into the local pub one day and threw a pint of beer over her husband’s head because he hadn’t answered the telephone? You can find out on the night.

The free winter events in the library are organised by The Folklore Library and Archive and supported by a grant from the Mid Devon District Council Growing Communities Fund.

There are three more events left in the programme after this one, all starting at 7pm: an evening of shanties and sea songs on Friday, February 28; a talk on church folklore and urban legends on Friday, March 14; and a harp recital featuring the live accompaniment of the 1923 silent movie version of Peter Pan on Friday, March 28.

To book your free places (essential for the harp recital) please telephone the library on 01363 772578 or email [email protected].

Mark Norman