Our journey started with the Bodleian Library.
This library is on the second floor, known as the "first floor" in England. Reason? To prevent damage to the library from floods or insects.
The library was also protected within its walls. Books were chained to the shelves. To protect the spines from damage, the chains were attached to the front cover of the book. There were no candles permitted inside the library to avoid fires. Students relied on natural light from the windows to read their books. And students only had light if they were able to get the seat by the window - study tables faced the shelves because of the chains. Library hours were dictated by sunlight. Unlike libraries today which are dictated by their governing bodies.
Just as there were no candles, there was also no fireplace inside the library. Students studied inside the cold building. Our guide told us two students died during that time. I felt awful when I heard this fact. That was how badly they needed access to library material for their success in education. This made me reflect and appreciate the invention of the printing press, freedom to access library material, invention of electricity and electric heat. I took it all for granted at my public library back in western Canada. But when I get back to work, what I learned at the Bodleian Library will change my outlook on library services and the function of the buildings which house its contents.
Some things still have not changed at the Bodleian Library. Students are still expected to take the library oath before accessing resources. A picture of the oath postcard purchased at the gift shop is included in this blog. No one receives special treatment at this library. King Charles I was not granted permission to have library books shipped to the palace. The librarian refused the request. A special reading room was built within the library. It is more like a booth than a room. The king respected the librarian's wishes. King Charles I came and read his books in the Reading Room. And the rules still apply. Members of the Royal family use this room if they wish to read any material from this library.
Only differences now? Chains were removed as students protested against it. The noise distracted them from studying. And there is electricity and heat in the building.
Oh ya, I nearly forgot! Since 1960, students no longer need to pass the Latin entrance exam to get accepted into Oxford.
