With the recent article about the English Library Vevey at this link, and Biblioweekend happening this weekend, we thought a catch up with Edward Brett, Librarian at The Library in English Geneva was required! We wrote this article back in 2022. It was time to hear from them again. Don't miss the upcoming second-hand book sale will be taking place from 11 to 13 April 2025!
What is the history of The Library in English?
The Library was set up in the early 1930s by a group of parishioners from the Emmanuel Church whose building it still shares. Over the years there has been significant expansion, although the Library remains essentially staffed by volunteers. There are over 10'000 books in the collection, approximately half in the Adult section, and half in the Junior section, with new books purchased and added every week.
How long have you been involved in The Library in English and what drew you to it?
I first became involved with the Library when I was looking for places to do work experience prior to undertaking a Librarian course at the Haute Ecole de Gestion. This was back in 2008. One of my first tasks was to do a stockcheck of the Library - to identify books that were missing. I subsequently was hired as a weekend student helper, then promoted to Assistant and then acting Librarian, before being confirmed as Librarian in 2018.
What is the biggest obstacle The Library in English has had to overcome in the last years?
In 2023 we changed our Library software, helped by a grant from the Loterie Romande. This has been a big change for us, and a significant improvement as the catalog is now online. This has been of huge benefit to our members, as well as to our volunteers.
What are The Library in English's plans for the future?
We continue to develop the Library's collection, following book news and trends throughout the English-speaking world. We are also looking at ways to update the Library layout.
Edward with Paddington
What are you reading at the moment?
I recently read Bill Browder's book, "Freezing Order" which was fascinating - I am also a fan of the Rebus series by Ian Rankin and read the latest installment last week. On my list of books to borrow is "Onyx Storm" by Rebecca Yarros, however I am waiting to give other members a chance to read it first!
Enter our competition to win a family membership
The Library in English have generously offered one of our readers the chance to win a full family membership (value CHF 195.-)!
Just fill out this form and answer this question: In what decade was The Library in English founded?
Only one entry per person and per email is allowed. The competition closes at midnight on Thursday, 3 April 2025. The names of all those submitting correct answers will be placed into the digital hat and the winner’s name drawn at random by Friday, 4 April 2025. No cash equivalent of prizes is permitted. The winner will be notified by email.
Upcoming event
The Library in English organized big second-hand book sales twice a year. The thousands of books will be on sale and will hopefully all find new homes.
11 to 13 April 2025
The Library in English
Rue de Monthoux 3
1201 Genève
022 732 80 97
www.thelibrary.ch
With the renovation work at the Grand Hotel Fairmont, the nearest place to park is the Parking des Alpes - alternatively by bus 1 or 25, 1 stop from the Railway station to the Monthoux stop, or by the Mouette boats across the lake.
