Bodleian Libraries
LibraryAbout
The Bodleian Libraries are a premier academic library service in the UK, comprising the main Bodleian Library and 27 other libraries across Oxford. Founded in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley, it is one of Europe's oldest libraries. The Bodleian holds over 13 million printed items, making it the second-largest library in Britain after the British Library. It is a legal deposit library, entitled to copies of all books printed in the UK and Ireland. The Bodleian's collections include rare books, manuscripts, and other materials. The library's buildings, such as the Old Library and the Radcliffe Camera, have remained in use since the Middle Ages. The Bodleian is renowned for its historical significance and architectural beauty, attracting scholars and visitors worldwide. It supports the University of Oxford's research and learning objectives, offering digital access to its collections and hosting public exhibitions.
