Sir James Reckitt Exhibition

A new exhibition dedicated to the life of Sir James Reckitt will open at Central Library next week, 100 years on from his death.

‘Sir James Reckitt: A Life of Legacy’ will open to the public on Monday 18 March, showcasing and celebrating his life, businesses, philanthropy and legacy.

The exhibition will explore the life of Sir James Reckitt, who he was, his beliefs and values, and the development of the business we know as Reckitt’s.

Examples of his philanthropy can still be seen today and continue as a legacy to his generosity. The city’s public libraries owe much to his philanthropic dedication as benefactors of an endowment established by Sir James Reckitt in 1892, now known as the James Reckitt Library Trust.

The exhibition has been developed with local historian Mike Covell, and has received generous support from Reckitts Heritage.

Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure said: “Sir James Reckitt’s incredibly important work within the library service lives on today through the James Reckitt Library Trust.

“So it is fitting that this exhibition will be hosted here, and will open exactly 100 years since his death on 18 March 1924.”