Social history on display in Priaulx Library gardens

The library’s annual garden exhibition, which is being sponsored for the seventh time by Ravenscroft, showcases photographs of rarely-seen prints and treasures, including two books of hours from the 15th century, which were owned by bibliophile and philanthropist Osmond de Beauvoir Priaulx.

Photographs of Saumarez Park, a moonlit Victoria Tower during a 1939 blackout and some from Christmas during the Second World War will be included on the boards, which will remain on display throughout the summer.

Reproductions of postcards and tourist brochures will also celebrate the island’s heyday as a tourist destination.

Priaulx Library chief librarian Sue Laker said they were pleased to have the exhibition back.

‘We are privileged to have some beautiful treasures at the Priaulx Library which we want to share with islanders and tourists,’ she said.

‘Our team has chosen some fabulous images, which will be complemented by a display of artefacts inside the library.

‘We are very grateful to Ravenscroft for their continued support and enthusiasm as we wouldn’t be able to put these pieces of Guernsey’s history on public display without them.’

Ravenscroft stockbroking director Toby Peatfield said the exhibition was now a popular event in the calendar.

‘The exhibition attracts visitors from across the world and is a chance for tourists and locals alike to learn a little more about Guernsey’s history,’ he said.

‘Ravenscroft has a long association with the library and is delighted that we can continue our support of what is surely one of the jewels of Guernsey’s crown.’

The garden exhibition, which is free to enter, officially opens tomorrow and will be open throughout the summer, with the display in the library accessible during opening hours.