Great War exhibition coming to library

Great War exhibition coming to library

Echuca Library is one of only 12 libraries in the state to host a travelling exhibition commemorating the Great War.

The exhibition – Writing the war: Personal stories from WWI – highlights seven personal stories from the war, tracing the wartime accounts of a nurse, bank clerk, sports master, journalist, artist and activist.

It officially opens on 12 March at 11am and will remain at the library for six weeks.

Library services manager Jenny Mustey said the exhibition will be supported by memorabilia from local sources.

“This is a travelling exhibition from State Library Victoria, which we are looking forward to hosting,” she said.

“It features seven double-sided panels telling stories of regular people who were involved in the war, with material from State Library Victoria. We also have several local groups who are loaning us items to go on display including diaries, uniforms, and letters. Some of these items have never been on public exhibition.”

The exhibition is free to attend and is open during library hours. There are activities scheduled throughout its time in Echuca, including creative writing exercises, military records sessions, walking tours and war films.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the First World War, and there’s opportunities to research your family’s WWI ancestors during the event, as well as write a postcard to a soldier or nurse serving in the war. I’d encourage all to come and view during the library’s opening hours,” said Ms Mustey.