Cornish library project captures public imagination

Submitted by Myghal Map Serpren on March 21, 2014 - 5:39pm

Redruth Cornish Language Group which meets at the Melting Pot Café, Krowji, the former Redruth Grammar School in Cornwall has been adding to its extensive collection of books written in the Cornish language and is now pleased to allow the public restricted access to the library whilst they visit the café.

The library was the idea of a Bard of Gorsedh Kernow and a member of the Cornwall Branch of the Celtic League who combined their talents to raise the funds and to publicise the collection.

Visitors have already browsed the many reference and story books whilst enjoying coffee or a snack.

Cornish language students are often found in the café and the group meets for informal and fun lessons at 5.30PM each Wednesday evening and the Cornish is often heard being used in conversations.

A grant awarded by the Redruth Charity Trust has enabled the initial purchase of books. It is hoped that any future grant will further enhance the growing collection which already numbers over 65 volumes. This said, private individuals who have recognised the opportunities offered by making books written in Cornish available to the public have also donated funds.

Enquiries regarding the collection have come not only from the immediate area but also from further afield, indeed as far away as Moscow!

Anyone interested in learning more of the Cornish language which has seen a resurgence in interest or indeed, learning about the language are warmly welcomed along.

Contact is invited with the Group’s tutor, Clive Baker, by phoning Ben at the café on 07915 252757, by email to 'redruthcornishlanguagegroup@gmail.com' or simply by calling in. A Facebook site has also been opened at: https://www.facebook.com/redruthcornishlanguagegroup

Clive Baker said’ “We are excited with the interest in our library resource and our use of Facebook has produced an astonishing response. Not only have we had numerous queries but also considerable interest expressed from the local press.”

Photograph shows Bard Clive teaching the time in Cornish to some of the class members, Pol Jenkin and Terri Melow

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