Bracknell Library will hold a public event on Saturday 29 November 2025 as part of the UK-wide Our Freedom: Then and Now project. The event will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and will celebrate the freedom and community spirit that makes Bracknell Forest a special place to live.
The programme begins at 11am with a performance of ‘The Freedom Tree of Bracknell’, a newly commissioned fairytale written by children's author Catherine Emmett. The story will be presented by members of the library team through music and storytelling. Cake and refreshments will be available.
Following the performance, attendees are invited to join a printmaking craft session led by artist Areej Abdi. Participants will design their own bookmark using printmaking techniques, which can be taken home or added to the community art display in the library.
Over the past few weeks, libraries across Bracknell Forest have been displaying ‘freedom reading trees’ featuring decorated paper leaves created by local residents of all ages. Each leaf includes drawings and reflections on what freedom means to them. Mobile versions of the ‘freedom trees’ will be unveiled at the public event. Leaf templates are available at all libraries for those who wish to contribute. The event is free and open to all members of the public.
Cllr Iskandar Jefferies, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture, Public Protection and Democracy, said:
“This project has been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on what peace and freedom mean to us today. Our celebration day will be a fun event for people of all ages and backgrounds, to come together and celebrate everything that makes Bracknell Forest such a special place to live and be proud of. A big thank you to Arts Council England and Libraries Connected for giving us the opportunity to be part of this fantastic national event.”
