Led by Asun Altuna, a library employee since 1992 and director since 2021, Arrasate Municipal Library will celebrate its 60th anniversary on June 12th. The library has occupied various locations throughout its history: initially in the Garibai house, then in the Monterron palace, and finally, since 2027, in Kulturate. Altuna has highlighted that the library has "changed a lot" over the years, transitioning from its initial dark premises with many stairs to its current bright, modern, and accessible space.
The current service comprises the Kulturate facility and the Santa Marina neighborhood library. Technological advancements have also impacted the service, emphasizing the need for networks and computers, as well as changes in how music is consumed. However, the library's core objectives remain: "to be a meeting point for diverse individuals and a sanctuary for culture".
“"I would say that libraries, as institutions, are alive. Perhaps I would say there is a lack of succession; I believe there will be problems finding staff in both archives and libraries. Nevertheless, we are pleased with the users' response; they treat us, and the material, with respect."
To commemorate the anniversary, a two-hour celebration will take place at Kulturate next Friday, starting at 6:00 PM. The event will feature several special guests, including a special reading guided by Beatriz Egizabal and an acoustic musical performance by the group Del Val. Prior to this, there will be a tasting of birthday cake and a projection of old photographs.
Beyond lending books, music, and films, the library offers additional resources such as laptops, magnifiers for visually impaired individuals, and vintage video equipment. It also provides consultation and study rooms. Monthly events like storytelling sessions, musical talks, and literary discussions are also part of its extensive offerings. Currently, 14,501 residents of Arrasate are library members, representing 65% of the population, with 426 new members joining in the past year.
Altuna considers herself "very fortunate" to have had the opportunity to pursue this career, driven by her passion for reading and her interaction with the community. She adds that she is "constantly learning," as in this profession, there is always "the chance to read one more book".
