When Alan Stables took on the job of manager at Sheringham library in 1967, books, magazines and newspapers were the only things on offer, and silence was the order of the day.
'I remember hinting to one elderly gentleman that he might like to refrain from whistling while he was looking at the books, but, on the whole, we were a very friendly bunch,' Mr Stables remembered.
The library, which celebrated its 50th anniversary on Monday, first opened in a cupboard at Sheringham Girls' Junior School in 1928, moving to its own premises at Station Approach in 1941.
The current building, in New Road, was officially opened in 1963, after land was bought from Erpingham Urban District Council for £207.
Mr Stables, 83, was guest of honour at the anniversary event, which saw staff provide coffee and cake for visitors and put together a display of memorabilia.
Those attending were also invited by north Norfolk-based poet Phil Barrett to share their memories of the library in days gone by for a 'birthday wishes' display to be put together later.
Library manager Jane Parker said the library now offered a wide range of services, from writers' workshops and free internet access, to children's events and outreach services.
She thanked all those who turned out to help mark the library's half century.
'The library is absolutely vital to Sheringham, it has become a popular meeting place and I think the town would certainly be worse off without it,' Mrs Parker said.
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