New intern Hermione Williams pens the latest article about the Bronte Parsonage Museum The Bronte Society – the oldest literary society in the world – celebrated its 120th birthday on December 16.

This momentous occasion was commemorated throughout the day and evening at the Bronte Parsonage Museum. Daytime visitors enjoyed slices of cake, and in the evening members of the Bronte Society were invited to celebrate with readings and, of course, more cake. Ann Dinsdale, our collections manager, brought out the minutes of the first ever society meeting to help mark the event.

We shall be celebrating with a year-long programme throughout 2014, and work is under way to ensure this year is a very special one.

Our closed period is slightly longer than in previous years (we open again on February 20), as we are doing extensive work relocating the admissions desk and adding a timeline of the Brontes’ life.

This will hopefully improve and enhance the overall visitor experience by shortening queues in the busier months and giving greater overall context before visitors enter the house.

During the closed period, we are also completing the annual cleaning and conservation work of all Bronte artefacts.

Work has been done on our new exhibition – The Brontes and Animals – opening on February 20. All the displays have been changed, so there will be many new things to see, including a new hand-woven rug in Mr Bronte’s study. It is in a style similar to the one described by Ellen Nussey in 1833.

Due to the extended closed period during February, we are offering an alternative programme. Every weekday between February 3 and 20 at 2pm there will either be a free walk or talk on topics such as The Brontes’ Haworth and the History Of The Parsonage.

During half-term, inspired by The Brontes and Animals, we will be organising animal-themed activities, such as drop-in craft and writing workshops and an animal trail. There will also be free guided walks for the whole family to enjoy.

Please see our website or e-mail susan.newby@bronte.org.uk for further information.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with us as we show the most recent adaptation of Jane Eyre (2011), in association with Haworth Cinema.

The fourth Women Writers Festival will be held from March 14-16, with talks, workshops and readings from Jackie Kay and Sarah Dunant.

Two new interns joined the team in the Parsonage this month – Lauren Livsey and myself. The five-month intern programme is a great opportunity for those starting a career in museums.

If you can’t make it to one of our drop-in sessions then Lauren, myself and the team at the Parsonage, we look forward to welcoming you.