AS PART of a UK study tour, a group from the Department of Library and Information Studies at the University of Southern Mississippi made a special visit to Dunfermline Carnegie Library recently.

Dr Matthew Griffis, a Carnegie scholar, and his group were all keen to see around the world’s first Carnegie library despite the building currently being closed in preparation for the construction of the new £10.6 million Museum and Gallery, which is due to open in 2016.

Local history librarian Janice Erskine and library assistant Sharron McColl gave the group a guided tour and history of the building, highlighting the many impressive features, such as the wood panelling and carvings, the wrought iron work on the staircase and the original shelving and fireplaces.

Anne Gilmour, customer services co-ordinator, Fife Cultural Trust, said, “We were delighted we could accommodate the visit before the building works start.

“Although the library’s contents have already been packed up, the group were particularly interested in the architectural features of the building of the first Carnegie Library.

“They really enjoyed their visit to Dunfermline and seeing Andrew Carnegie’s legacy. Perhaps some of the group will return in the future to see the library open again - with the new integrated Museum and Gallery.” During the closure period, library services are still available in four temporary premises in the Maygate, City Chambers, Music Institute beside the Carnegie Hall and St Margaret’s House.

For more information, contact Dunfermline Library in the Maygate on 602365.