It may have been the year that Snow White became the first ever animated feature film, Spam hit the shelves, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco was completed and the Hindenberg burst into flames in New Jersey.

But 1937 was also the year that Bamber Bridge library opened its doors for the first time.

This week staff and visitors of all ages have been celebrating the 70-year milestone.

However, one visitor knew the library better than most - because she started work there on the day it opened.

Dorothy Blackwell, 87, had just left Balshaw Grammar School and was about to go to Manchester University to read English when she was persuaded by the parson at St Saviour's Church to rethink her path.

She said: "He told me that it was a waste going to Manchester and that he wanted me to be the library assistant. It's changed a bit because the counter used to be in the centre of the room and the books were set out differently.

"I still come down and use the library so it's very nice being here today 70 years on."

A local newspaper cutting from the time shows that the library cost the princely sum of £2,143 - including fittings - to build and was officially opened by County Councillor Percy Ley on November 13, 1937.

The article goes on to quote Coun Ley as saying that the town should appoint a sanitary officer for books' in a bid to stop young people reading books that are not suitable for them.

Regular user Yvonne Gormley said that she feels the library still provides a community focal point for Bamber Bridge.

She said: "The library is always busy and is a place where people come and actually socialise. Even if you just come in to read the paper, you are always made to feel welcome and I think that is important for Bamber Bridge.

"My grandchildren still love coming to the library and I think it is a real event when they come here. They are very internet and computer aware but the actual touching of the books and choosing the books makes it an experience for them."