I first remember visiting the Public Library as a 14-year old student preparing for CXC O'level History exams. Even then the Library showed its age — it was built in 1901, according to the date on the roof — and in all honesty the exterior doesn't look very much different now than it did then, more than ten years ago. Though, ten years ago I probably didn't spend very much time standing outside looking up at the facade as I do now.

In those days downtown was, to me, a bustling, overcrowded and quite intimidating place and the Library was a mythical building which I'd heard talked about but never ventured into myself. At the height of exam preparation time, the Library was a busy place, students at every seat on the tables crammed between a clutter of imposing shelving units. It wasn't the place for me, and I don't think I visited more than once or twice.

Today, the Library is closed, its contents moved to the brand new National Library on the opposite end of Woodford Square. I don't know the government's plans for this building, but I hope it can be refurbished and preserved, as part of the heritage of our country.

Update: According to Michael Anthony, local historian and author, in his book First in Trinidad, this building was almost completed in 1901. It was in fact finished in 1902. The library, which had been previously housed on Chacon Street, was relocated on March 21st 1902. Also of interest, the library is on the site of the home of Trinidad's first Governor, Sir Thomas Picton. That building was apparently destroyed to make way for the new library building.