Freedom has always been central to the story of Bracknell – from its beginnings as a New Town in 1949 to the opportunities it continues to offer today. As part of the Our Freedom: Then and Now project, Bracknell Forest Libraries explored the theme of freedom through the iconic trees of the borough, using them as symbols of shelter, vibrancy, strength, and growth. Just as trees put down roots and flourish, the town was created as a place where people could build community and thrive.

Local artist Areej Abdi created a series of striking Freedom Trees, now on display across all Bracknell Forest’s libraries. Some stand free‑form, others climb walls or wrap around pillars, each with its own distinctive character. Crafted entirely from recycled, donated and repurposed materials – from carpet tubes and newspaper to wood and fallen branches – the trees celebrate creativity, sustainability, and community spirit. Areej spoke often about the joy she found in bringing them to life, describing how the generosity of local donors and the dedication of volunteers shaped every stage of the making process.

The trees were decorated by local people, who created leaves featuring pictures and words expressing what freedom meant to them. Leaf‑making workshops in the libraries invited participants of all ages to explore their own ideas of freedom, and additional groups – including young carers at South Hill Park, Scout groups, residential homes, and local schools – added their voices. Areej reflected on how meaningful these moments of connection were: listening to people’s stories, watching them create with care, and seeing each person find their own way to express freedom. She described the project as a shared artwork that “grew” through every leaf added, filling her with pride, hope and deep fulfilment as the trees took their place in the libraries.

The Freedom Trees will continue to evolve, refreshed with seasonal decorations created during library activities – from Easter themes to magical, story‑inspired designs – ensuring they remain a living, growing part of the community for years to come.

With trees so often linked to magical stories, the libraries were thrilled to invite children’s author Catherine Emmett to write The Freedom Tree of Bracknell Forest fairy tale. Extracts from the fairy tale:

• ‘All around, thick green vines thrust from the ground! They reared to the sky and tore down the castle’s dark walls! It tumbled to rubble as the vines gently lifted the sprites to safety. The spites laughed and cried to be reunited. They danced and they sang…’
• ‘Together they planted the little wooden heart that her father had given her, and when the sprites danced around it, it grew to be the tallest and mightiest tree in the forest…’
• ‘They called it the Freedom Tree. As the years past, the forest flourished and the little hamlet of Braccan Heal grew to become known as Bracknell Forest. The folk there were always known for their kindness and for how they offered a warm welcome to those fleeing trouble in their own lands. To remember the importance of being free, each generation would plant their very own Freedom Tree.’

The story was brought to life during the project’s celebration day at Bracknell Library, accompanied by original music composed by a talented member of the library staff. The event brought together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate everything that makes Bracknell Forest such a special and welcoming place. Several of the Freedom Trees were unveiled for the first time, the Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest joined the celebrations, and the day concluded with a shared slice of celebratory cake.

Plans are in place for the fairy‑tale performance to tour the libraries later in 2026, bringing the story to even more families across the borough. A filmed version will also ensure the story can be enjoyed long after the live events, and printed editions – featuring artwork created in collaboration with local young people – will remain available in the libraries as a lasting celebration of creativity and community partnership.

Another key legacy of the project was the creation of a new self‑guided history walk leaflet along Bracknell High Street. Available in libraries and online, the walk invites residents and visitors to explore how the town centre has evolved since the end of the Second World War and Bracknell’s designation as a New Town in 1949. Produced with the valued support of The Bracknell Forest Society, it offers an engaging introduction to the town’s past for newcomers and long‑standing residents alike.

 

 

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