The County Reference Library, located in Truro, United Kingdom, was established in 1896. It was originally known as the Cornwall County Library and was created to serve as a central reference library for the county of Cornwall.
At the time of its establishment, there was a growing interest in education and literacy in Cornwall, and the library was seen as a way to provide access to knowledge and information for the local community. It was also seen as a way to support the growing industries in the area, such as mining and agriculture.
The library was initially housed in a building on Pydar Street in Truro, but in 1905 it moved to a larger and more modern building on Union Place. This new building was designed by architect Silvanus Trevail and featured a grand reading room, a lending library, and a reference library.
Over the years, the County Reference Library has continued to grow and evolve. In the 1960s, it became part of the Cornwall County Library Service, which was responsible for managing all public libraries in the county. In 2009, the library underwent a major refurbishment, which included the addition of a new computer suite and improved accessibility for visitors.
Today, the County Reference Library remains an important resource for the community, providing access to a wide range of books, reference materials, and online resources. It also hosts various events and activities, such as author talks and workshops, to promote literacy and learning in the local area.
1. Fiction Collection: This collection includes a wide range of popular and classic fiction books, including novels, short stories, and graphic novels.
2. Non-Fiction Collection: This collection covers a variety of subjects such as history, science, biography, travel, and more. It also includes reference books and encyclopedias.
3. Children's Collection: This collection is specifically for children and includes picture books, chapter books, and non-fiction books for different age groups.
4. Young Adult Collection: This collection is aimed at teenagers and includes fiction and non-fiction books that are relevant and engaging for this age group.
5. Local History Collection: This collection focuses on the history of Truro and the surrounding areas, including books, maps, and documents.
6. Large Print Collection: This collection includes books with larger font sizes for those with visual impairments.
7. Audio-Visual Collection: This collection includes audiobooks, DVDs, and CDs for borrowing.
8. Reference Collection: This collection includes dictionaries, encyclopedias, and other reference materials that can only be used within the library.
9. Language Learning Collection: This collection includes books, CDs, and DVDs for learning different languages.
10. Special Collections: The library also has special collections such as rare books, local author collections, and special interest collections.
11. E-Books and E-Audiobooks: The library also offers a wide selection of e-books and e-audiobooks that can be borrowed online.
12. Magazines and Newspapers: The library has a variety of magazines and newspapers available for reading within the library.
13. Online Databases: The library provides access to various online databases, including academic journals, newspapers, and reference materials.
14. Interlibrary Loan: The library also offers an interlibrary loan service, where users can request books from other libraries if they are not available in the County Reference Library.
The County Reference Library in Truro, United Kingdom offers a wide range of rare books, history archives, and manuscripts for readers to explore and discover. These materials provide a unique and valuable insight into the past, allowing readers to delve into different eras and cultures.
Some of the rare books available at the library include first editions, limited editions, and out-of-print books. These books cover a variety of subjects such as literature, art, science, and history. Some notable rare books in the collection include a first edition of Charles Darwin's "On the Origin of Species" and a limited edition of William Shakespeare's "First Folio."
The history archives at the library contain a wealth of information about the local area and its people. This includes documents, photographs, maps, and newspapers dating back to the 18th century. These archives are a valuable resource for those interested in genealogy, local history, and social history.
The library also has a collection of manuscripts, which are handwritten documents that provide a unique perspective on historical events and individuals. These manuscripts include letters, diaries, and journals from notable figures such as Winston Churchill and Florence Nightingale.
In addition to these materials, the library also has a special collection of rare and valuable maps. These maps range from antique maps of the world to detailed maps of the local area, providing a visual representation of how the world and the county have changed over time.
The County Reference Library also offers access to digital archives, allowing readers to access rare books, history archives, and manuscripts online. This provides a convenient way for readers to explore these materials from the comfort of their own home.
Overall, the rare books, history archives, and manuscripts available at the County Reference Library in Truro offer a unique and fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you are a history buff, a literature lover, or simply curious about the world, these materials are sure to captivate and educate you.

Services:

1. Access to a wide range of books: The library offers a vast collection of books covering various genres such as fiction, nonfiction, reference, and children's books. Subscribers can borrow these books for a specific period, and the community can use them within the library premises.
2. Online resources: The library provides access to various online resources such as ebooks, audiobooks, emagazines, and databases. Subscribers can access these resources from anywhere with their library card, and the community can use them within the library premises.
3. Reference and research assistance: The library has a team of trained librarians who can assist subscribers and the community with their research and reference needs. They can help find relevant information, provide guidance on using library resources, and answer any queries.
4. Computer and internet access: The library has computers with internet access that subscribers and the community can use for free. This service is especially beneficial for those who do not have access to a computer or the internet at home.
5. Printing, scanning, and photocopying: The library offers printing, scanning, and photocopying services at a nominal fee. Subscribers and the community can use these services to print documents, scan images, or make copies of important documents.
6. Events and workshops: The library organizes various events and workshops throughout the year for subscribers and the community. These events include author talks, book clubs, writing workshops, and children's activities.
7. Book reservations and interlibrary loans: Subscribers can reserve books that are currently on loan or request books from other libraries through the interlibrary loan service. This service allows subscribers to access a wider range of books that may not be available in the library's collection.
8. Home delivery service: The library offers a home delivery service for subscribers who are unable to visit the library due to mobility issues or other reasons. This service allows them to borrow books and have them delivered to their doorstep.
9. Local history and genealogy resources: The library has a dedicated section for local history and genealogy resources. Subscribers and the community can access these resources to research their family history or learn more about the local area.
10. Meeting rooms and study spaces: The library has meeting rooms and study spaces that subscribers and the community can book for group meetings or individual study. These spaces are equipped with WiFi and other necessary facilities.

Things To Do:

1. Art Exhibitions: The library regularly hosts art exhibitions featuring the works of local artists. These exhibitions showcase a variety of mediums such as paintings, sculptures, and photography.
2. Book Launches: The library often hosts book launch events for local authors, giving them a platform to promote and discuss their latest works.
3. Author Talks and Book Readings: The library invites authors to give talks and readings from their books, providing an opportunity for readers to engage with their favorite writers.
4. Children's Storytime: The library organizes regular storytime sessions for children, where they can listen to engaging stories and participate in fun activities.
5. Book Clubs: The library hosts book clubs for different age groups, where members can discuss and analyze books in a friendly and welcoming environment.
6. Writing Workshops: Aspiring writers can attend writing workshops organized by the library to learn about different writing techniques and get feedback on their work.
7. Local History Exhibitions: The library often collaborates with local historical societies to showcase exhibitions on the history of the county and its people.
8. Film Screenings: The library occasionally hosts film screenings, showcasing a variety of genres and themes.
9. Poetry Readings: The library hosts poetry readings by local poets, providing a platform for them to share their work with the community.
10. Language Learning Events: The library organizes language learning events, where participants can learn basic phrases and vocabulary in different languages.
11. Book Fairs: The library hosts book fairs, where visitors can browse and purchase books from local and independent authors and publishers.
12. Music Performances: The library occasionally hosts music performances, featuring local musicians and bands.
13. Craft Workshops: The library organizes craft workshops for both children and adults, where they can learn new skills and create their own crafts.
14. Health and Wellness Events: The library hosts events focused on health and wellness, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and nutrition workshops.
15. Technology Workshops: The library offers workshops on various technology topics, such as coding, digital photography, and social media for beginners.

1. Respect the library's rules and regulations: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the library's rules and regulations before entering. This includes guidelines on noise levels, food and drink policies, and handling of library materials.
2. Keep your voice down: Libraries are meant to be quiet spaces for studying and reading. Be mindful of your volume when talking to others or using your phone.
3. Handle books and materials with care: The library's books and materials are meant to be shared by everyone. Make sure to handle them with care and avoid damaging or marking them in any way.
4. Return books to their proper place: After using a book or material, make sure to return it to its designated spot. This helps keep the library organized and makes it easier for others to find what they need.
5. Use headphones when listening to audio: If you need to listen to audio materials, make sure to use headphones. This will prevent disturbing others who are studying or reading nearby.
6. Avoid bringing in strong scents: Some people may be sensitive to strong scents, so it's best to avoid wearing strong perfumes or bringing in strongly scented items to the library.
7. Keep personal belongings with you: While the library is generally a safe space, it's always best to keep your personal belongings with you at all times. Do not leave them unattended, even for a short period of time.
8. Use designated study areas: The library may have designated areas for group study or quiet study. Make sure to use these areas accordingly to avoid disrupting others.
9. Be respectful of others' space: If someone is already sitting at a table or using a computer, do not invade their space without asking. Respect others' personal space and privacy.
10. Report any issues or concerns: If you notice any issues or concerns at the library, such as damaged books or disruptive behavior, make sure to report it to a staff member. This helps maintain a positive and safe environment for everyone.

The County Reference Library in Truro, United Kingdom offers a variety of subscription plans for its patrons. These plans are designed to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of library users. Below are the details of the subscription plans offered by the library:
1. Basic Membership: This is the standard membership plan offered by the library. It is free of charge and allows members to borrow up to 5 items at a time, including books, DVDs, and audiobooks. The membership is valid for one year and can be renewed upon expiration.
2. Premium Membership: This is a paid membership plan that offers additional benefits to its members. It costs £25 per year and allows members to borrow up to 10 items at a time. In addition, premium members have access to online resources, such as e-books and e-magazines, and can reserve items in advance.
3. Family Membership: This is a special membership plan for families, which costs £40 per year. It allows up to 4 family members to borrow up to 15 items at a time. This plan also includes access to online resources and the ability to reserve items in advance.
4. Student Membership: This membership plan is designed for students and costs £10 per year. It allows students to borrow up to 10 items at a time and provides access to online resources. A valid student ID is required to avail this membership.
5. Corporate Membership: This is a membership plan for businesses and organizations, which costs £100 per year. It allows up to 10 employees to borrow up to 20 items at a time. This plan also includes access to online resources and the ability to reserve items in advance.
6. Digital Membership: This is a free membership plan that provides access to the library's online resources, including e-books, e-magazines, and online databases. It does not include borrowing privileges for physical items.
All membership plans can be purchased at the library's circulation desk. The library also offers a pay-per-use option for non-members, where they can borrow items for a small fee. Additionally, the library offers special discounts and promotions throughout the year, so it is recommended to check their website or visit the library for more information.

The County Reference Library in Truro, United Kingdom is open Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 5:30pm. On Saturdays, the library is open from 9:30am to 4:00pm. The library is closed on Sundays.

Looking to visit the County Reference Library in Truro, UK? You have multiple public transport options! Take the bus, train, or tram to reach the library conveniently. Plan your journey using the local transport website or app. Enjoy a hassle-free trip to the library and explore its vast collection of resources.