And a large proportion of those attending signalled their support of the group by signing up on the evening to be a “friend”.

The evening featured a talk by local historian Peter Shakeshaft – just in advance of the publication of his new book on the history of St Annes – in which he reminded listeners that the library was built in 1904 as a direct result of local citizens taking action and attracting funding from the philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

Library staff do not necessarily expect that level of donation today – but the support of the local community is much appreciated.

Senior librarian Tricia Virgo then explained what friends’ groups are – essentially a group of local people who support their library. They operate independently of the library service, but in close co-operation with library staff.

Volunteers can help in many ways, including fundraising – to pay for extra events or items not provided by the general library budget, for example plants or seating for the proposed new library garden; help with organising and hosting events; help with local and family history activities; an extra pair of eyes at children’s events during the summer; and not least, help develop plans for the garden.

The first AGM will take place on June 18 at 7.30pm in the library, when a committee will be elected, and future plans for the group decided. All are welcome. More information will be available in a leaflet from the library soon, but meanwhile call the library on (01253) 643900, or pop in and talk to any member of staff.