PEOPLE who want to find out more about local history and how to start researching their own family or house history are invited to attend a free event next week.

The introduction to local, family and house history takes place on Wednesday, March 27 at Rawdon Library at 7pm.

Clive Woods, member of the Rawdon Library Steering Group and Chairman of Aireborough Civic Society said: “This is a wonderful opportunity if you want to find out more about the local history of Aireborough or anywhere in Yorkshire or if you want to start researching your family or house history.

"There are some wonderful old photographs of homes, shops, events including fairs, the first trams to Guiseley, men leaving for the First World War, skating on Yeadon Tarn and much more in our local history books.”

Ilkley Gazette: An old photograph of Guiseley Station. Photograph courtesy of Aireborough Historical SocietyAn old photograph of Guiseley Station. Photograph courtesy of Aireborough Historical Society

Clive added: "Most people are unaware that Rawdon Community Library probably has the best local history library in Leeds excepting the Central Library. It was set up in 1966 before Aireborough became part of Leeds (in 1974). As well as Guiseley, Rawdon and Yeadon there are local history books about all parts of Leeds, including the centre, Otley, Adel, Horsforth and many more. There are also books for most places in Yorkshire – Menston, Bradford, Harrogate, Halifax, Ripon etc.

"Other books cover nature, railways, churches, countryside, sport – all focused on the county of Yorkshire. All far more helpful than can be found on the internet!

"We also have bound copies of the Wharfedale Observer from the 1960s to the 1990s – with stories and news plus adverts for films and local shops.

"Family History is another strength of the library. There is free access to the ‘Find My Past’ family history using the computers at the library to gain access to this important source of historical information. All census information from 1841 – 1911 is available as well as details of births, marriages and deaths. Also less obvious information eg: lists of passengers on ships leaving and arriving in the UK."

Ilkley Gazette: Yeadon Market in 1971. Photograph courtesy of Aireborough Historical SocietyYeadon Market in 1971. Photograph courtesy of Aireborough Historical Society

Rawdon Library is open: Mon 10am-1pm; Wed 10am-5pm; Thurs 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-1pm and Sun 11am- 2pm.

The library is at Rawdon Crossroads next to Micklefield House and Park. It was taken over by volunteers when Leeds City Council decided to close it in 2012 and is now a thriving library and community centre with an important local history room.

It has good bus links (33, 34, A1, A2,) a large car park and disabled access and facilities.