Bodleian Library and Its Treasures, 1320-1700

Publisher and industry reviews

UK Kirkus review

Famous the world over, the Bodleian Library in the heart of Oxford incorporates in beautiful buildings an unrivalled collection of treasures, not only manuscripts and printed books but also maps, music, portraits, and sculpture. A mile and a half of new shelving is required every year - the library continues to grow. Dr David Rogers (who worked in the Bodleian for many years, becoming Head of Special Collections) tells the story of the library and its contents for the first time, from its inception by Thomas Cobham, Bishop of Worcester, in 1320, enhancement in the Renaissance by Duke Humfrey's magnificent manuscripts, the Re-Foundation 1598-1613 (Francis Bacon called it 'a new ark to save learning'), through political and domestic upheavals to the acquisition of Edward Bernard's library in 1697. A long-awaited, important, well-illustrated new book. (Kirkus UK)