World Book Day, March 4, 2004: What is it and why should you be interested?
Books can be used in a variety of ways, whether just reading for leisure or for learning, discussing your favourite read or discovering new interests, revelling in the use of words or finding pleasure in the ways books are made.
'World Book Day' is a celebration of the enjoyment and fascination that books offer to us. Many organisations are putting on special events to celebrate this day. Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is holding an open day to the museum reference library, which is normally only accessible by appointment for research purposes.
On March 4, everyone is welcome to visit the museum to see the large collection of historic books and the many rare volumes held in the library. The collection contains a large section on natural history, many volumes with beautifully executed hand coloured plates.
There is also an early 17th century edition of John Speed's 'History of Britain', Robert Recorde's 'The Whetstone of Whit' published in 1557 (in which he describes how he devised the equals sign) and some of the earliest guide books written about Tenby, to name just a few.
You are invited to view these and others, to talk to the librarian about the collection and the history of the reference library, find out what it is like to hold a 400-year-old book in your hands, examine the fine prints, lithographs and lithographs, but most of all to enjoy the books.
Running alongside this event is an exhibition of decorated book covers showing in the new art gallery. Do join in and help to celebrate 'World Book Day'.
The museum opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm with last admission at 4.30 pm.