New warden for historic library
A new Warden has taken the helm at an historic library in North Wales.
This week the Revd Dr Andrea Russell became the first new Warden at Gladstone’s Library in Hawarden, Flintshire, in 25 years - and is also the first woman to take up the role.
She was licensed by the Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory Cameron.
The Library is a Grade I listed example of neo-Gothic Victorian architecture and is a rare example of a residential library, its 26 bedrooms allowing visitors to sleep in the same building as its unique archival and book collections.
Dr Russell comes to Gladstone’s Library from the Oxford Diocese where she was Director of Formation for Ministry.
Welcoming her appointment, Bishop Gregory said, “Gladstone’s Library is a huge asset and resource to which to have access for the Church in Wales. Andrea brings particular experience and skills from within her ministry as a priest that will enhance that link and be a brilliant contribution to the life of the library and of the Church in Wales.”
Dr Russell said, “This is a unique role and I feel privileged to be here at the Library. Whether it is the staff who work here, the national and international scholars who come to study or those who come to read, write or rest, everyone is so committed to this place that celebrates learning in all its forms.
"I am very much looking forward to having conversations with friends of the Library, staff and guests over the coming months so that together we can discern the next chapter for Gladstone’s. Building on Peter Francis’ legacy, I have no doubt that the Library has a fabulous future and I am thrilled to be part of it."
Gladstone Library is a huge asset and resource for the Church in Wales
Originally founded in the late 1800s, the Library includes a core collection of books once owned by four times Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone.
The current building was opened in 1902 and features three dedicated silent reading rooms accessible to registered Readers and residential guests.
The library supports a series of scholarships, events and Writer in Residencies and has hosted a range of writers, including Sarah Perry (The Essex Serpent), Michel Faber (The Crimson Petal and the White) and Stella Duffy (Theodora).
Patrick Derham, the Chair of Trustees of Gladstone’s Library said, "We are very pleased to welcome Revd Dr Andrea Russell as the new Warden of Gladstone's Library. Andrea's vision for the future of Gladstone's Library is in keeping with the ethos and guiding principles of the institution and we very much look forward to working with her."