Falmouth Library Manager Jayne Cardew celebrates 30 years working in library services in Cornwall

Falmouth Library Manager Jayne Cardew is celebrating 30 years working in library services in Cornwall this year. To mark the occasion, Falmouth Town Council arranged a surprise floral presentation by Director of Cultural Services Morwenna Lewis to Jayne at one of her weekly Rhymetime sessions for parents, carers and children.

Jayne began her career in library services in 1995, joining on an initial six-month temporary contract working on the mobile library. After taking up a series of posts including Library Assistant in Redruth Library, Stock Officer at Falmouth Library, and Library Manager at Penryn Library on a temporary basis, she finally settled into her role as Library Manager in Falmouth in 2011.

During her long tenure, Jayne has overseen lots of change to how library services are delivered in the county – including their devolution from Cornwall Council to local town councils in 2016, when Falmouth Town Council was the first to take ownership of its library. Technology has also transformed the way in which libraries operate, with the internet changing how librarians work day to day.

Jayne is a familiar face to many across the town thanks to her work in the library, in particular with families and schools. Children who once attended her sessions in the library or in schools are now returning to the library as adults with their own children, something which Jayne notes as a sign of how people see the library as a positive, safe space with lots to offer.

Jayne said: “It’s hard to believe it has been 30 years, it has gone so fast! Looking back, there has been so much change in library services during that time. Libraries are now lively and vibrant community hubs, as well as a safe space for moments of calm and quiet. I’ve made some great friendships and it’s lovely to hear positive feedback about how the library makes a difference in people’s lives.”

Morwenna Lewis, Director of Cultural Services at Falmouth Town Council, adds: “Jayne really is at the heart of Falmouth Library, and we wanted to mark this milestone and thank her for her dedication and service. Her commitment to making the library accessible for all has made it the welcoming space you see today. I’m sure the people of Falmouth will join me in thanking Jayne for all she has done, inspiring generations of keen readers in our town.”