Christopher Thomson 1799-1871 Sailor, Comedian, Social Reformer, Artist, Author and advocate for the local Oddfellows. He contributed much to supporting the community of Edwinstowe setting up a 'Penny Library', "Night Classes" and lectures, as well as "Self-Help' groups from 1838 -1849. This building (formerly the Old Library built 1913) followed in a similar tradition.