A VITAL community facility has celebrated an important centenary — 100 years of library services in Devon.

While the ceremony marked 100 years of libraries in Devon, the history of libraries in Holsworthy stretches even further back.

Museum records indicate the launch of the first facility, a ‘lending library’, opening in 1849 thanks to the patronage of John Vowler Esq of Parnacott, Devon magistrate, chairman of the Holsworthy board of Guardians and a significant landowner in the area at the time.

A spokesperson said of the event marking 100 years of the Devon Library Service: “Library staff past and present, along with customers and members of the Friends of Holsworthy Library gathered to celebrate the centenary of the library service in Devon.

“It was fascinating to hear memories of the library service over the years and the ways in which it's enriched people lives. The library obviously means a lot to a lot of people!

“As well as being full of wonderful books Holsworthy library is also somewhere that people can access events and information. There is free Wi-Fi, public PC's, printing and photocopying services as well as a variety of boardgames, daily newspapers and free refreshments alongside digital offers such as free ebooks and audiobooks.

“Holsworthy library is a friendly, community space and people are encouraged to come in and see what's on offer.”