Homepageblank spacer imageWorship & Musicblank spacer imageLiving & Learningblank spacer imageLiving & Learning Overviewblank spacer imageSchool of Theologyblank spacer imageManaging the Cathedralblank spacer imageDiocese of Lincolnblank spacer imageMagna Cartablank spacer imageLecturesblank spacer imageWho's Whoblank spacer imageLibraryblank spacer imageLibrary Homepageblank spacer imageThe Wren Libraryblank spacer imageAdopt a Bookblank spacer imageMedieval Manuscriptsblank spacer imageThe Early Printed Booksblank spacer imageLibrary Exhibitions & Events 2010blank spacer imageGroup visits to the Libraryblank spacer imageResearch Facilitiesblank spacer imageOnline Catalogueblank spacer imageFurther Informationblank spacer imageLincoln Cathedral Centreblank spacer imageProtection: Children and Adultsblank spacer imageJob Vacancies within the Cathedralblank spacer imageContact Informationblank spacer imageVisits & Eventsblank spacer imageHow You Can Helpblank spacer imageCathedral Salesblank spacer imageBuilding & Historyblank spacer image
Library Homepage
ContentPicture
The finest rare book library in the East Midlands is housed in two historic libraries at Lincoln Cathedral. Among the top five cathedral libraries in the country in terms of its collections, it is also outstanding for its buildings. In addition there is a modern reference library which is open to the public. Exhibitions from spring to autumn take place in the Medieval and Wren Libraries, and events including lectures, concerts and readings are held in the Wren Library.

Books have always been an integral part of cathedral life, whether for use in the services, or for study. Lincoln’s Chapter Bible was commissioned for the new cathedral by Nicholas, Archdeacon of Huntingdon in the late 11th century. At that time the manuscripts were kept in a chest or cupboard, and scholars came from great distances to consult them.

By 1422 a new, chained library had been built over the east walk of the Cloister, adjoining the Chapter House. Three of the medieval reading desks and one bench survive in the Medieval Library, which was built to accommodate around a hundred manuscripts.

The Wren Library is one of only two surviving purpose-built libraries designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Click here to learn how to contribute in support of the Library.

Opening times

In 2010 the Wren and Medieval Libraries are open to the Public from the 9th April until the 30th October. The opening times are as follows:

Monday to Friday: 1pm to 3pm
Saturdays: 11am to 3pm
Bank Holiday Monday 30th August: 11am to 3pm

The library will be closed on Wednesday 8th September

As part of the Heritage Open Weekend the Library will be open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 11th September. The Lindsey Scribes will be doing caligraphy and craft sessions in the library for children of all ages. There is no need to book. The Library is open to the general public as usual while the activities are taking place.

Entry to the Libraries is included in the Cathedral ticket price. The libraries are on first floor level and there is currently no disabled access.