Barrow Library is set to lead a powerful new arts project as part of the UK-wide “Our Freedom: Then and Now” programme, commemorating 80 years since the end of the Second World War.
Westmorland and Furness Council’s Barrow Library one of just 20 libraries in the UK awarded funding to create an original local project and host a series of events reflecting on what “freedom” means, both in the aftermath of 1945 and in today’s world.
Barrow Library has deep historic ties to the Second World War. Located in an area heavily affected by the Barrow Blitz air raids, where its basement once served as an air raid shelter. Today, it is recognised as a Library of Sanctuary - a safe, welcoming place for all members of the community to gather, share ideas, and express themselves.
It joins 60 community-led projects across the county that will focus on the theme of ‘Our Freedom,’ bringing together young people, heritage volunteers, and community groups to explore how the end of the war transformed lives in Barrow, what gave people hope in 1945, and what inspires hope for today’s generation.
Throughout August, two acclaimed local and national artists will run free workshops for communities to enjoy, producing new creative works inspired by Barrow’s past and present.
Lyndon White, a comic book artist, author and illustrator, known for works published by Image, Top Cow and Blue Fox Comics, will create a 24 page comic book inspired by Barrow residents’ memories and stories of freedom.
Caleb Staps, a Barrowvian writer, performance poet, and workshop facilitator, will lead poetry workshops encouraging residents to produce blackout poetry, memorial pieces, and socially engaged verse.
The Comic Creators Workshops with Lyndon White are taking place on
Tuesdays 19 and 26 August from 1 to 4pm, and Poetry Workshops with Caleb Staps are planned for Thursday 21 and 28 August from 4 to 5:30pm.
The project will culminate in a free exhibition launch at Barrow Library on Saturday 8 November. Visitors will be able to view the finished comic-art book, take part in a live draw-along, and enjoy a performance of newly created poetry.
Cllr Helen Chaffey, Cabinet Member for Communities, Customer Services, Culture and Communications, said:
"This project is a wonderful opportunity for Barrow to reflect on its unique history and to celebrate the resilience, creativity and hope that continue to define our community. The theme of ‘freedom’ has such powerful relevance, not only in remembering the sacrifices and challenges of the Second World War, but also in thinking about what freedom means in our lives today.
“I’m delighted that Barrow Library has been recognised nationally with funding for these events, and I look forward to seeing how local stories, art, and poetry will bring our shared history to life for all generations."
For more information, or to share your own story of freedom, email barrow.library@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk.
Find out more about the national programme at ourfreedom.org.uk.
