Books and Pictures at the Museum

Books and Pictures - reference and for sale:

In addition to displaying some of the many articles donated or loaned to us, the museum has a small collection of books on local history and several prints or pictures. Unfortunately space does not allow us, at present, to hang all the attractive prints or paintings we hold. A gallery of them would be of interest to many if we had the room.

As mentioned above we have an increasing number of books covering the history and heritage of this area, from the river to the railway, from personalities to businesses. The Volunteer Stewards have access to them if needed to answer a specific question but it would be advantageous to have a case of such books that visitors could investigate for themselves.

There are Census Books and a book of Rents. We also hold publications by local compilers of Photographs. We produce our own very popular Booklets for in house exhibitions and we hold a series of postcards especially for visitors. Copies of the booklets and postcards are for sale at reasonable prices (cash or contactless CC) to discerning buyers. Do ask the Stewards.

Obviously we are not a branch library but these publications form an important part of our collection and can often assist when researching an event, topic or period. Perhaps an interested and enthusiastic volunteer might like to take on the role of our ‘Librarian’. He or she would register, catalogue and index our holdings as well as advise on acquisitions to broaden our knowledge. An index of subjects, dates and events on our computer would be very useful to any researchers. The post-holder might wish to assist with our booklet production. Do contact the Museum Secretary if the role could appeal to you.

Should you be looking to dispose of books on local subjects, please do not forget the museum. Let us have at least a look at them. Even if we already have a copy, yours might be in better condition than ours and a second copy ensures one is always available to view. Please no paperbacks even if they include a reference to Philip Marlow!  However, First Editions or Works of art are usually acceptable.

- Objects in Focus 19 -