The Guyana National Library is celebrating 100 years of existence this year with a calendar of organised activities that included a visit by President Bharrat Jagdeo today.

The President’s visit was not part of the calendar of activities but was welcomed anyway and brought smiles to the faces of the Library’s staff who were elated to provide him with a tour of the facility.
Accompanied by Chairman of the National Library Committee Pitamber Persaud, Personnel Officer Annis Craig and Jillian Thompson, the Head of State inspected and met staff of the building’s various departments.


President Bharrat Jagdeo inspecting the different category of books at the Guyana National Library.

Persaud was particularly pleased with the President’s visit noting that it will go down in the history of official visits which the library has received among whom were Royal Highnesses.   
The President shared a few ideas which he believes will improve the work of the library by expanding the library’s work and aid in promoting better interest in Caribbean literature and
The library’s centenary anniversary was marked by book exhibitions and school tours, quiz competitions, a fitness walk, day of sports, photographic exhibitions, a champion reading competition, essay and short story, national debate competition, staff tour and concert, games and literary evenings and award ceremonies.


President Bharrat Jagdeo looks on at a student working in the Information Technology unit of the Guyana National Library.

Formerly known as Public Free Library, the National Library was opened in September 1909. A sum of $33,600 was donated to erect the building which was designed by civil engineer Pervical Hodge.
The architectural style holds elements from the Victorian and Georgian architecture of Britain. In 2001 a three-storey wing was added to create more space for the services.


President Bharrat Jagdeo meeting staff of the Guyana National Library.