The United Kingdom, steeped in centuries of history and scholarship, is home to some of the oldest libraries in the world. These venerable institutions not only serve as repositories of knowledge but also stand as monuments to the enduring power of the written word.
The libraries on this list, each with its own unique story and collection, offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. From ancient manuscripts preserved for millennia to architectural marvels housing millions of books, the oldest libraries in the UK are as diverse as they are historic.
Below, we explore eight of these iconic libraries, delving into their origins, collections, and the remarkable roles they’ve played in the annals of British history.
Oldest Libraries in the UK
1. The Bodleian Library
The Bodleian Library, located in Oxford, is one of the most prestigious and oldest libraries in the UK, having been established in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley. It is a legal deposit library, meaning it is entitled to receive a copy of every book published in the UK, significantly contributing to its vast collection of over 12 million items.
The library’s architecture is a sight to behold, featuring the historic Radcliffe Camera and the medieval Duke Humfrey’s Library. The Bodleian has been a center of scholarship and learning for over 400 years, attracting scholars from around the world. Its most treasured possessions include the Magna Carta copies and the first folio of Shakespeare’s plays.
2. The British Library
Although the British Library in its current form was established relatively recently in 1973, its collections date back to the foundation of the British Museum in 1753. Situated in London, it is one of the largest libraries in the world, with a catalog boasting over 170 million items. The library’s holdings encompass manuscripts, maps, newspapers, magazines, prints, drawings, and music scores from all over the globe.
The King’s Library tower, containing the personal collection of King George III, and the beautifully illuminated Lindisfarne Gospels are among its most notable treasures. The British Library continues to be a leading resource for research, innovation, and discovery.
3. Chetham’s Library
Founded in 1653 in Manchester, Chetham’s Library is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world. It was established under the will of Humphrey Chetham, a wealthy textile merchant, for the education of the “sons of honest, industrious and painful parents”. The library’s collection has grown to include over 100,000 volumes of printed books, 60,000 of which were published before 1851.
The architecture and atmosphere of Chetham’s Library, with its dark wooden shelves and stone buildings, take visitors back in time. Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels famously worked together in this library, and it remains open to the public today.
4. Lambeth Palace Library
Lambeth Palace Library, founded in 1610, serves as the historic library and record office of the Archbishop of Canterbury. It is located on the banks of the River Thames in London and is one of England’s oldest public libraries. The library contains a significant collection of ecclesiastical and historical manuscripts, as well as documents concerning the history of the Church of England. Its treasures include the MacDurnan Gospels, early printed books, and Archbishop Thomas Cranmer’s own copy of the first Bible printed in England.
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the library building itself is a masterpiece, underlining the enduring connection between architecture and learning.
5. The University of St Andrews Library
Scotland’s oldest university library, the University of St Andrews Library, was formally established in 1612. It is renowned for its comprehensive collection of over a million volumes and its striking modern architecture juxtaposed with historic collections. The library is a crucial resource for research in Scotland, offering an extensive range of manuscripts and early printed works.
Significant holdings include medieval manuscripts, incunabula (books printed before 1501), and the papers of several prominent Scottish figures. This library serves as a bridge between the past and present, supporting both historical scholarship and contemporary research.
6. Innerpeffray Library
Innerpeffray Library, located in Perth and Kinross, Scotland, lays claim to being the first free public lending library in Scotland. Founded in 1680 by David Drummond, 3rd Lord Madertie, the library began as a collection of books for the local community’s education and enlightenment. Visitors can explore an array of volumes ranging from early religious texts to 18th-century literature, reflecting the diverse interests of its readers over centuries.
The library’s setting, in a tranquil rural location, enhances the sense of connection to history. Innerpeffray Library continues to operate as a museum and lending library, preserving its legacy while adapting to contemporary needs.
7. The Guildhall Library
The Guildhall Library in London, established in 1425, focuses primarily on the history of London and its people. Its collection encompasses over 200,000 volumes, ranging from the 15th century to the present day, including rare books, periodicals, and maps. The library is particularly noted for its extensive collection of Samuel Pepys’s diaries and the works of John Stow.
As a living repository of London’s history, it not only attracts researchers and historians but also provides a comprehensive archive for genealogists tracing family histories. The Guildhall Library’s dedication to preserving London’s rich history makes it a cornerstone of the city’s cultural heritage.
8. Hereford Cathedral Library
According to historical records, Hereford Cathedral Library stands as one of the oldest libraries in the world, tracing its roots back to before the Norman Conquest. This prestigious library boasts a tradition of chaining its books to shelves, a method widely used in the oldest libraries to safeguard their valuable manuscripts from theft.
Among its most precious possessions is the Mappa Mundi, an extraordinary medieval map of the world that dates to around 1300, highlighting its status among the oldest books and artifacts within such institutions.
Alongside this, the library’s holdings encompass an extensive array of early printed works, manuscripts, a noteworthy collection of music scores, and religious texts. Hereford Cathedral Library not only acts as a gateway to medieval scholarship and thought but also diligently preserves these ancient texts and practices for the enlightenment of future generations.
FAQs
What is a legal deposit library?
A legal deposit library is entitled to receive a copy of every publication produced in the country, ensuring the preservation of literature, journals, and documents for future generations. The UK has several such libraries, including the Bodleian Library.
Can anyone visit or borrow from these libraries?
While most of these libraries are open to the public for visitation and research, borrowing policies vary. Some, like Chetham’s Library, still function as lending libraries, whereas others, like the Bodleian, do not lend to the public.
Do these libraries only contain old books?
No, despite their ancient origins, most of these libraries also acquire contemporary books and documents. They blend historical and modern collections, supporting current research while preserving the past.
How are these libraries funded?
Funding sources vary, including government funding, private donations, and endowments. Some libraries also host events, offer memberships, and accept volunteers, which help support their operations.
Conclusion
The oldest libraries in the UK are more than just collections of books; they are gateways to the past and beacons of knowledge, culture, and history. They have adapted to the changing times while preserving the essence of their legacy, continuing to inspire and educate generations. These libraries not only hold the stories of the past but also serve as custodians of human thought and creativity.
Whether you’re a scholar, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious visitor, these libraries offer a unique window into the rich tapestry of human knowledge and achievement.