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Rhymney Library is celebrating its 50th anniversary this week, with a packed schedule of events to mark the occasion.

The library reopened earlier this year following a £400,000 refurbishment, which includes a refurbished ground and first floor, improved Wi-Fi, private meeting rooms, and a learning space on the first floor.

There is also a new “cross-generational” mural which was painted by artist Siôn Tomos Owen with help from local schoolchildren and residents. 

A number of family-friendly events will be held at the library each day between Monday December 2 and Friday December 6.

Monday December 2

• 9.30am to 11.30am: Rhymney – Dirty Faces to Green Spaces – A talk on how our energy use has changed.
• 10am to 11am: Baby and Toddler Time – Ideal for ages four and under.
• 12pm to 1pm: Rhymney Millennium Chorale Choir – Enjoy a special choir performance of Christmas music.
• 1.30pm to 2.30pm: Jimmy Stokes – Hear from local author Jimmy Stokes as he shares insights into his books and journey to publication.
• 3.30pm to 5.30pm: Pokéswap Card Swap – Swap cards, participate in themed colouring activities, and have fun.

Tuesday December 3

• 10am to 11am: Baby and Toddler Time – Ideal for ages four and under.
• 10am to 11am: The History of Smoking Talk – A talk on the history of smoking.
• 12pm to 12.30pm: A Look at Rhymney Past – A fascinating local history talk with Rhymney Heritage Society.
• 1pm to 1.30pm: A History of Rhymney Ironworks – Local history talk with Bill Smith.
• 3pm to 4.30pm: Make Winter Hand Warmers – Learn how to sew your own microwavable hand warmers.

Wednesday December 4

• 10am to 12pm: Multiply: Air Fryers Workshop – Discover how air fryers have changed cooking over 50 years, including a demonstration of making mince pies.
• 2pm to 3pm: Rhymney Dwr Music Group – A musical afternoon with a selection of Welsh, Christmas, and 70s music.
• 4pm to 4.30pm: Magic Show – A fun magic performance for all ages. Please contact Rhymney Library Hub to book your space.

Thursday December 5

• 10am to 11am: Baby and Toddler Time – Ideal for ages four and under.
• 12pm to 3pm: Craft Session – Create your own Christmas decorations – all materials provided.
• 3.30pm to 4.30pm: Crafting with Caerphilly Youth Service – Make various craft Christmas decorations with guidance from the team, open to all ages.

Friday December 6

• 10am to 11am: Baby and Toddler Time – Ideal for ages four and under.
• 11am to 12pm: Parent Network Activity – A great opportunity to meet other parents and enjoy a fun session.
• All Day: Meet Santa – Visit Santa and have your photo taken to create lasting memories.
• 3.30pm to 4.30pm: Christmas Crafts with Val – Make unique paper-crafted Christmas decorations.
• The celebrations will also feature an art competition for children aged 6 to 11, with the winner receiving a one-month family membership to use at any Leisure Lifestyle leisure centre in Caerphilly County Borough.