The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and one of the most renowned in the world. Located in Oxford, England, the library has been in continuous use since 1602 and is a legal deposit library for the United Kingdom. It houses over 12 million printed items, which include manuscripts, maps, and early printed books, as well as significant collections of rare books, pamphlets, and journals.
History of the Bodleian Library
The Bodleian Library was founded by Thomas Bodley in 1602. Bodley was a diplomat, scholar, and a bibliophile who wanted to create a library to promote learning and education in Oxford. He funded the construction of a library building and established a set of rules for the library’s operation. Over the centuries, the library has grown to become one of the most important libraries in the world.
Collections and Services
The Bodleian Library houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and other materials. It is also home to a number of rare books, including some of the earliest printed books in the world. The library also holds important collections of manuscripts, pamphlets, and journals, as well as a range of other materials.
In addition to its collections, the Bodleian Library provides a range of services to scholars, including a reading room, a library catalogue, and a range of digital resources. The library also hosts events and exhibitions, as well as a range of educational activities.
Notable Features
The Bodleian Library is home to some of the most iconic and important buildings in Oxford. The oldest building is the Old Bodleian Library, which was built in 1602 and is still in use today. The library also includes the Radcliffe Camera, a circular building built in 1737, and the Divinity School, which was built in 1480 and is the oldest surviving example of a medieval university building.
The Radcliffe Camera
The Radcliffe Camera is one of the most iconic buildings in Oxford. It was built in 1737 as a library for the Radcliffe Science Library and is now used as a reading room for the Bodleian Library. The building is circular in shape and has a dome-like roof, which is topped with a cupola. The building is a Grade I listed building and is open to the public.
The Divinity School
The Divinity School is the oldest surviving example of a medieval university building. It was built in 1480 and is now used as a lecture hall and examination room. The building is a Grade I listed building and is open to the public.
Visiting the Bodleian Library
The Bodleian Library is open to the public and offers a range of tours and activities. Visitors can explore the library’s collections and view some of the most iconic buildings in Oxford. The library also hosts a range of events and exhibitions throughout the year.
- Tours: Visitors can take guided tours of the library’s buildings and collections.
- Events: The library hosts a range of events, including lectures, exhibitions, and workshops.
- Educational activities: The library offers a range of educational activities for school groups, including workshops and lectures.
The Bodleian Library is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Oxford and the world of books. With its vast collections and iconic buildings, the library is a unique and inspiring place to explore.