Shetland Museum and Library mark 60 years since opening of landmark building

The opening of the Shetland County Library and Museum building represented a turning point for the islands, bringing together two vital services under one roof for the first time. The building became a place where people could explore Shetland’s heritage through museum collections while accessing the knowledge, learning and opportunities provided by the library service.

Above: The old Shetland Museum and Shetland Library building, Lower Hillhead, c. 2001.

While libraries and reading rooms have served Shetland communities for more than 200 years, the purpose-built Library and Museum building created a lasting cultural hub at the heart of island life. For generations of Shetlanders, it was a place of discovery, education and connection, helping to preserve the past while supporting future learning.

Above: Shetland Museum and Library; folk life gallery, 1970

By the mid-20th century, a growing determination to preserve Shetland's heritage closer to home had gathered momentum. The loss of significant discoveries such as the Gunnister Man and the St Ninian's Isle Treasure, alongside wider cultural changes, strengthened calls for a dedicated home for Shetland's collections and archives. Through the efforts of local campaigners, the Shetland Folk Society and public authorities, that vision became a reality with the opening of the Shetland County Library and Museum building in 1966.

Above: Shetland Museum, Lerwick 1980s: Front doors of Shetland Museum and library, Lower Hillhead. Carved posts at each side. Round Lerwick Race 1980 poster on window

To mark the anniversary, Shetland Library and Shetland Museum & Archives will host special drop-in events on Saturday 27 June, inviting members of the public to celebrate 60 years of Library and Museum life in Shetland.

Visitors will be encouraged to share their own memories of the building and its services through a special memories-collecting activity. There will also be family-friendly activities, including colouring sheets and children’s trails, alongside displays of archive photographs reflecting the history of the Library and Museum. The Museum will also show a selection of objects from its collections, including some intriguing ‘mystery objects’ for visitors to identify.

Catherine Jeromson, team lead - Library Services said: “Many people in Shetland will have fond memories of when the Library and Museum were together under one roof at the Hillhead. For generations, the building was a place where people could browse the shelves, discover something new about Shetland’s past, and meet friends and neighbours along the way. As we celebrate sixty years since the building opened, it’s a chance to reflect on the memories it holds for so many people and the important role it has played in the life of our community. The Library continues to be a place of learning, discovery and connection, and we’re proud to carry that legacy forward for future generations.

"Tracey Hawkins, collections manager at Shetland Museum and Archives said: “The opening of the Museum and Library in 1966 was a landmark moment for Shetland. It reflected a powerful community belief that our history, knowledge and culture belong here — and should be shared for generations to come. Sixty years on, that same spirit continues to shape everything we do."

The anniversary offers an opportunity not only to look back at the history of the building and the generations of people who have passed through its doors, but also to celebrate the enduring value of libraries and museums as places that bring communities together.

Members of the public are welcome to drop in on Saturday and take part and share their stories and memories.