Merton College Library
Merton College Library, University library in Oxford, United Kingdom
Merton College Library is a research library at Oxford University with holdings of around 70,000 volumes spread across multiple buildings including the Old Warden's Lodgings and the Lower Library at Mob Quadrangle. The collections include rare manuscripts, printed works, and historical scientific instruments spanning different periods.
Founded in 1373, the library is the oldest continuously operating academic library in the world. Its collections have grown over centuries through donations and acquisitions, forming an important record of scholarly development.
The library displays treasures such as a Welsh Bible belonging to Elizabeth I, along with globes and scientific instruments from the 16th century. These objects reflect the intellectual traditions that have shaped academic work here over the centuries.
Access to the library is limited to members of the university and their guests, requiring prior registration. The library provides specialized equipment such as magnification tools and portable hearing loops to assist different visitors.
In the 16th century, Thomas Bodley introduced vertical book shelving here, replacing the traditional horizontal storage used in English libraries at that time. This innovation allowed better use of space and became a model for modern library design.
Location: Oxford
Operator: Merton College
Part of: Merton College
Website: http://merton.ox.ac.uk/library-and-archives
GPS coordinates: 51.75070,-1.25250
Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:48
Merton College
48 m
University of Oxford Botanic Garden
288 m
Mob Quad
13 m
Merton College Chapel
95 m
Dead Man's Walk, Oxford
103 m
Merton Street tennis court
118 m
Street Surface Of Merton Street
141 m
Corpus Christi College, New Block
74 m
Merton College, Chapel, Front Quadrangle
45 m
Merton College, The Wardens House
127 m
Oriel College, Wall Fronting Magpie Lane
94 m
Merton College, East Range, Mob Quadrangle
29 m
Postmasters Hall
91 m
University College, Archway, Forming The South West Entrance Of The College Onto Kybald Street
128 m
Merton College Stables
85 m
6-9, Magpie Lane
127 m
Merton College, Screen Wall Of The Wardens House
122 m
Beam Hall, With Number 3
78 m
4 And 5, Kybald Street
121 m
15, Merton Street
193 m
Merton College, Wall Fronting Merton Street
171 m
Merton College, Fellows Quadrangle
56 m
18, Merton Street
215 m
Sedan Hall
187 m
2, Kybald Street
120 m
16, Merton Street
201 m
Merton College, North Range, Front Quadrangle
76 m
17, Merton Street
207 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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