Statement following the death of Her Majesty

Dear Friends, Readers, guests and followers of Gladstone’s Library,

The Trustees, staff, and volunteers of Gladstone’s Library wish to express our profound sorrow at the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The Library will remain open during the period of national mourning, as we recognise the part that this institution, as a national memorial for a public servant and statesman, may have to play for the people of Flintshire and the surrounding areas who may wish to find space to reflect and gather during this time.

As a Prime Ministerial library, Gladstone’s Library, in common with the village of Hawarden, has historical links with the Royal Family and we look back fondly on the Royal visit in 1998, which saw Queen Elizabeth II tour the grounds and the building.

After consultation with Trustees and event speakers, all scheduled events will continue, albeit sympathetically and in keeping with this being a time of national mourning. As a sign of respect, we will suspend online posts and outgoing messages over the next few days.

For many of the staff and Trustees at Gladstone’s Library, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is the only monarch within our lifetimes. Her death marks a shared historical moment for all of us, and we send our condolences to the Royal Family, and the nation as a whole, at this sad time.