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A new microfilm reader will make it easier for Priaulx Library users to search through centuries of history.
The table top machine has been donated by Ravenscroft stockbroking and investment management as part of their continued commitment to the library.
"All of Guernsey’s family history records are stored on 35 mm film which includes census, births, deaths and marriages and parish records going back to the 16th century. That makes it easier for people to search, takes up less storage space and means that the original documents aren’t damaged," said chief librarian Amanda Bennett.
"There will be a time when all that information will be digitalised but that’s years away and so the microfilm readers are essential pieces of equipment. We have seven in total but three are very old, very noisy and you can no longer get the parts for them. Just replacing one would use up all of our annual furniture budget so we’re very grateful to Ravenscroft."
Ravenscroft has supported the Priaulx Library since 2013 by sponsoring a photographic exhibition in the gardens which is on display for two months over the summer.
"The Priaulx Library is a fascinating place which is full of history about the island and generation after generation of Guernsey families, yet so many local people have never been inside this iconic building. The annual summer photographic exhibition brings some of that history outside for islanders and visitors alike to enjoy," said Charlie Roger, Ravenscroft chief executive officer, Channel Islands.
"Last year’s exhibition giving an insight into life in Guernsey during World War I was visited by more than 5,000 people and I am sure that this year’s theme, once it has been confirmed, will prove just as popular and we look forward to seeing it in place in July."
Last year, as part of the support, Ravenscroft donated a cabinet which has been used for various exhibitions within the library with the spring exhibition celebrating 70 years since the end of World War II.
The exhibition, which is being organised in conjunction with the Red Cross, will include an original Red Cross parcel, a gas mask used during the Occupation and letters sent to and from Guernsey between 1940 – 1945.
Entry to the Priaulx Library and its exhibition is free and it is open from 9.30 am until 5 pm Monday to Friday
