Our history...
The Haddenham Library first opened its doors on 14th September 1964. It was situated in the old Co-Op china shop, at 12 High Street. Freda Crofts was the Librarian, and later Mary Russell was her deputy. In 1972 it moved from the High Street into the Arkenstall Centre where it is currently situated.
During the 1990s, the Library came under threat of closure from the County Council for the first time. It was after a meeting to discuss the closure, that the Friends of Haddenham Library was formed in 1995 with the objective of promoting all Library activities. Despite attempts by the Friends to keep the Library open, it eventually closed on the 6th September 2003.
In the meantime, the Friends considered the options, and after discussion and consultation, and with public support, decided to reinstate the Library as a voluntary enterprise. The Haddenham Library was reopened on 27th October 2003 by local author Jean Adamson, writer of the Topsy and Tim books.
The Library service provided approximately 1,000 books and the computer issuing system, as well as some financial help. This was on condition that the Library achieved stipulated borrowing levels, applicable for three years until Autumn 2006.
In the first year, more books were obtained through gifts, donations and purchases. Regular purchases and donations ensure that the stock is frequently refreshed, and the Library now has just under 7,000 volumes on its shelves.
About
Haddenham Library & Archive welcomes residents of Haddenham and visitors to our village.
With free internet access, community computers, printer, photocopier, laminator, local research facilities and a wide selection of adult and children's books, there has never been a better time to visit your local library.
The Library survives thanks to the support of the County Council and Haddenham Parish Council - oh and donations - we never say no to books, money, offers of help or new members of the 'Friends of Haddenham Library'.
Haddenham's Village Archive is situated in the library near our local studies section and is looked after by the Haddenham Local History Group.
Haddenham Library is a volunteer staffed library. Borrowers must be members of Cambridgeshire Libraries, but membership is free and can be applied for in the space of a few minutes at Haddenham Library. To join the library and gain access to not just our village library but the whole of Cambridgeshire's Library Catalogue just bring in two forms of identification and we'll happily get you started.
Members can then borrow a maximum of 12 books for a period of 3 weeks. Books may be renewed 3 times (unless they have been requested elsewhere). Many books not available on the shelves can be ordered through the Library Service for collection at Haddenham Library.
If you already have a Cambridgeshire Library card – what are you waiting for?
Opening Hours
Monday 2.30 - 5.00
Wednesday 2.30 - 5.00
Friday 2.30 - 5.00 and 6.00 - 7.30
Saturday 10.00 - 12.00 noon
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