Oxford University Library
The Bodleian Library, often affectionately known as “Bodley” or “the Bod” by Oxford scholars, stands as the principal research library of the esteemed University of Oxford. Founded in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley, it holds the distinction of being one of Europe’s oldest and most significant libraries. With a vast collection exceeding 13 million printed items, it proudly ranks as the second-largest library in Britain, surpassed only by the British Library. This makes the Oxford University Library a truly remarkable institution.
Historical Roots Library
While the Bodleian Library’s continuous history dates back to the early 17th century, its origins are deeply embedded in Oxford’s academic past. The earliest known purpose-built library in Oxford emerged in the 14th century, established through the will of Thomas Cobham, Bishop of Worcester. This initial, modest collection of chained books was housed above the north side of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin.
Origins of Duke Humfrey’s Library
The collection saw steady growth, but a pivotal moment arrived between 1435 and 1437 when Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, a brother of King Henry V of England, made a substantial donation of manuscripts. This generous contribution necessitated a larger space, leading to the construction of a suitable room above the Divinity School, completed in 1488. This historic space is still revered today as Duke Humfrey’s Library. For centuries, books in such libraries were often chained to the shelves to prevent theft, a common practice in early libraries. It wasn’t until 1757 that these chains were finally removed from the Bodleian’s books, marking a significant shift in library management and access. However, after 1488, the university’s investment in the library’s upkeep and acquisitions waned, and many manuscripts were not returned, leading to a period of decline for this early iteration of the Oxford University Library.
Oxford University Library Today
In 2000, a significant administrative restructuring occurred within the University of Oxford’s library system. Numerous individual libraries were consolidated under the umbrella of what was initially termed Oxford University Library Services (OULS). Since 2010, this collective has been known as the Bodleian Libraries, with the Bodleian Library itself serving as its largest and most prominent component. This unified approach strengthens the overall Oxford University Library network.
Oxford Library: Legal Deposit & Highlights
Under the Legal Deposit Libraries Act 2003, the Bodleian Library is one of six legal deposit libraries for works published in the United Kingdom, ensuring its comprehensive collection of national publications. Furthermore, Irish law grants it the right to request a copy of every book published in the Republic of Ireland. Operating primarily as a reference library, documents generally cannot be removed from its reading rooms, emphasizing its role as a scholarly resource. The Bodleian is also renowned for its exceptional special collections, including priceless artifacts such as one of the few surviving copies of the Magna Carta and a rare First Folio of Shakespeare’s plays. The digitization of a significant portion of the library’s archives in 2015 has greatly enhanced public access to the rich holdings of the Oxford University Library. It’s worth noting the immense growth in readership: the number of readers in the Bodleian Libraries today is nearly 100 times higher than it was in 1945, reflecting its enduring importance as a global academic hub.
Independent College Libraries & SOLO
It is important to note that all colleges within the University of Oxford maintain their own independent libraries. Many of these college libraries predate the Bodleian’s foundation. Despite their autonomy, they actively participate in SOLO (Search Oxford Libraries Online), the Bodleian Libraries’ online union catalogue, facilitating a unified search experience across much of the Oxford University Library system. University College, however, maintains its own independent catalogue. This collaborative yet independent structure is a unique characteristic of the Oxford University Library landscape.
This comprehensive overview highlights the historical significance, administrative structure, and vital role of the Bodleian Library within the broader Oxford University Library system. Its commitment to preserving knowledge and providing access to scholarly resources continues to make the Oxford University Library a global leader in academic librarianship. The rich history and extensive collections of the Oxford University Library are truly unparalleled.