May is Local and Community History Month so, if you’re interested in Bedford’s rich history or would like to learn more about your local area, visit the Local Studies section at Bedford Central Library where you’ll find books and periodicals about Bedford and villages within the Borough.
Explore the history of your surroundings, or subjects and people local to us such as the River Great Ouse, airships, the London Brick Company, John Bunyan, lace making, and Glenn Miller to name just a few. Discover Bedford’s role during both World Wars and how the BBC Symphony Orchestra used various studios in the town to broadcast concerts after it relocated from London. Learn about the grislier side of Bedford’s history through books on historical crimes and murders, as well as tales of ghosts and local legends.
The Bedfordshire Heritage Library is a gem for local historians. Open every Tuesday from 11am-1pm and 2-4pm, it offers a quiet space to research local history. The collection includes bound volumes of local newspapers dating back to the nineteenth century, local street directories, and early journals and magazines.
All our libraries have a small selection of local studies books, and you can request titles to pick up from your local library. Search the online catalogue, download the library app, or speak to library staff.
And you can become a library member by speaking to staff at your local library or online at Online Registration - About Your Library - Virtual Library
We are promoting different stock types as part of Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading, which is taking place throughout 2025 with a wide range of events and initiatives including town centre performances, literary trails, and author readings.
There will also be a range of volunteering opportunities, such as the chance for adults to volunteer in local primary schools, helping to improve children’s reading skills and life chances.
To find out more or to get involved visit www.bedford.gov.uk/yearofreading or email yearofreading@bedford.gov.uk