Gerringong Library is one of the oldest free public libraries in the state and this month it will celebrate 150 years of literary glory, when it launches its Sesquicentennial Exhibition on November 7. 

The library was built in 1874, after Gerringong council decided Kiama library was too far away for locals to access. The council voted to house a collection of books in the town's Fern St grocery store and owner Mary Ann Scott charged £14 a year for the space and her librarian duties. 

The library moved into the Soldiers Memorial Hall in 1921, before shifting to Gerringong’s Town Hall when it was built in 1950. In 2021 it moved into its new premises on Blackwood St, which includes the Gerringong Museum and GLam Gallery.

To mark the library’s 150th celebrations, Gerringong & District Historical Society will host 'A night at the museum' with Caroline Baum from 5.30-7.30pm on November 7.

Baum, a well-known journalist and radio and television broadcaster, will discuss the history and importance of libraries in shaping the nation’s literary landscape.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through the library website. The GLaM Gallery will also host a free Sesquicentennial Exhibition from November 8-23.