Bodleian Libraries

Location	Oxford, England , United Kingdom
Type	Academic library
Scope
Established	1602
Dissolved
Closed
Architect(s)
Legal mandate
Service area
Branch of

The Bodleian Libraries are the library system of the University of Oxford in Oxford, England. They form one of the oldest and most significant library collections in the world, with a history dating back to the early 17th century. The Bodleian Libraries are renowned for their extensive collections, historical significance, and architectural beauty.

History

The Bodleian Library, the main research library of the University of Oxford, was founded in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley. It was established as a public library and has since grown to become one of the largest libraries in Europe. The library's origins can be traced back to the 14th century, but it was Bodley's vision and endowment that transformed it into a major scholarly resource.

The library was initially housed in the Divinity School and the Duke Humfrey's Library, which are part of the original medieval buildings. Over the centuries, the library expanded into new buildings, including the Radcliffe Camera and the Weston Library.

Collections

The Bodleian Libraries hold over 13 million printed items, including rare books, manuscripts, maps, and other materials. The collections cover a wide range of subjects and are particularly strong in the humanities, social sciences, and legal studies.

The libraries are also home to many special collections, such as the Shakespeare First Folio, the Gutenberg Bible, and the Codex Mendoza. These collections attract scholars from around the world and are a testament to the library's commitment to preserving cultural heritage.

Architecture

The Bodleian Libraries are known for their stunning architecture, which includes a mix of medieval, neoclassical, and modern styles. The original Bodleian Library building, with its iconic quadrangle, is a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture.

The Radcliffe Camera, designed by James Gibbs, is one of the most recognizable buildings in Oxford. It serves as a reading room and is connected to the main Bodleian Library by an underground tunnel.

The Weston Library, formerly known as the New Bodleian, underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2015. It now houses the library's special collections and provides state-of-the-art facilities for research and exhibitions.

Services

The Bodleian Libraries offer a wide range of services to support research and learning. These include access to digital resources, interlibrary loans, and specialized research assistance. The libraries also host exhibitions, lectures, and workshops to engage the public and promote scholarship.

Access

The Bodleian Libraries are open to members of the University of Oxford and to external researchers. Visitors can also access certain areas of the libraries, such as the exhibition spaces and guided tours.

See also

• University of Oxford
• Radcliffe Camera
• Weston Library
• Divinity School, Oxford

References

• Official website of the Bodleian Libraries
• MacGregor, Arthur. The Bodleian Library: A History. Oxford University Press, 2002.

External links

• Bodleian Libraries website
• University of Oxford website