The National Library of Wales has launched an exhibition exploring the history, impact and legacy of the Aberfan Disaster.

Drawing on the library's unique collections, ‘Aberfan Disaster 1966’ brings together photographs, archives, maps, artwork, publications and personal testimonies that reveal how the tragedy affected not only the people of Aberfan, but communities around the world.

Visitors will see powerful photographs by Philip Townsend, David Williams and I.C. "Chuck" Rapoport, capturing the immediate aftermath of the disaster and the resilience shown in the weeks and years that followed.

The exhibition also features international messages of sympathy and support, records of the Aberfan Disaster Fund, publications documenting efforts to rebuild the village, and material illustrating the enduring connection between Aberfan and the community of Lara, Australia.

Also on display is the unique three-sheet Ordnance Survey plan produced for the public inquiry, contemporary newspaper coverage from around the world, and architectural drawings for the Aberfan Community Centre and Cemetery Memorial.

Highlights include material from the Karl Jenkins Archive, including his personal copy of ‘Cantata Memoria: For the Children – Er mwyn y Plant’ (2016). Written to mark the 50th anniversary of the Aberfan Disaster, the work features a libretto by Mererid Hopwood and was performed and recorded by an internationally renowned cast including Bryn Terfel, Elin Manahan Thomas and Catrin Finch.

The exhibition also showcases the National Library's recent Book of Remembrance project. Funded by Welsh Government and delivered in partnership with the Aberfan Memorial Charity, the project created new copies of the Bethania Aberfan Book of Remembrance, ensuring that the 116 children and 28 adults who lost their lives continue to be remembered and honoured for generations to come.

‘Aberfan Disaster 1966’ opened at the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth, on 10 October. Admission to the exhibition is free.