Historic library opens to public

A library with a historic book collection dating back to 1170 has been opened up to the public for the first time.

St Botolph's library, in Boston, includes a copy of St Augustine's Work on Genesis which is over 850 years old.

It has been completely refurbished to preserve the collection.

Visitors can now join a public tour of the library, which also incudes early collections of Boston–born John Foxe’s Book of Martyrs.

The refurbishment has included UV filters and temperature controls to preserve the historic collection, and was paid for by £200k from Boston Town Deal.

The library is housed inside St Botolph Church, which is known as the Stump.

The chair of the Boston Town Deal board, Neil Kempster said: “The refurbishment of the library has been transformational.

"The improved building conditions mean that we can guarantee the future of this incredible book collection in the town, and allow people to be able to visit and experience this impressive and important space and collection."

"The Stump is Boston's historical centrepiece, an iconic building of which people are rightfully proud, and the investment in the library renovation and the lighting will enhance the space even more,” he added.

Chris Ladner, reader and parish resource officer for St Botolph's commented: "Before the improvements, the conditions in the library meant that the books were at risk of decaying, which is why we were never able to invite the public into this space.

"Now however, I'm thrilled that we can open the collection up to the public, and invite both local residents and visitors from the UK and around the world to come in and see these amazing books."

Anyone wishing to view the collection can book their place on a tour by emailing [email protected] or calling the parish office via (01205) 310929.

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