Grade II library to digitise rare book collections

Medieval manuscripts, rare botanical illustrations and unique books housed in a library founded in the 1800s are set to be made available digitally for the first time.

Gibson Library is in a Grade II listed building nestled in Saffron Walden, Essex, and is also home to unique annotated copies of books.

The Gibson Library Society said it has received a £139,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund in order to digitise the valuable collections.

Martyn Everett, chairman of the Gibson Library Society, said: "We are over the moon to have received this support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund."

He added: "Thanks to National Lottery players, we will be able to conserve and showcase the unique treasures of the Gibson Library for local, regional, national and worldwide audiences."

Under the digital discovery project, a new website will be created to showcase the library and its collections, making them accessible to everyone, no matter where they live.

A dedicated catalogue for researchers will also be created, which will also be accessible from the new website.

The Gibson Library was founded in 1832 as the Saffron Walden Literary and Scientific Institution. It is an independent, historic library, and a registered charity of which Essex County Council is the sole trustee.

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