Vital work to ensure the preservation of precious books at one of
The 16,000 books and pamphlets housed in Canterbury Cathedral’s Howley-Harrison Library, were under threat due to adverse environmental conditions, primarily fluctuating humidity levels.
The Save Canterbury Cathedral Appeal secured a grant of £230,000 from The Wolfson Foundation and English Heritage towards the conservation of the library – which was built in 1664. This grant was matched by £230,000 from The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral, who have been sponsoring valuable projects at the Cathedral since 1927.
This double cash boost effectively meant work could begin to replace the library’s roof and add secondary glazing to its windows, and also for an overall assessment of the library building’s fabric to take place. Significant work on the adjacent Wolfson Library is also part of the grand plan.
But securing the funding was only the start, with the Cathedral works team then facing the key issue of the safe storage of the book collection while the work takes place.
“The plan is to address the environmental control issues in the library and turn them around. But before we can do any of the work we have to get the books out,” said
During the building works, rare books will be moved from the library to safe storage within the precincts. The packing and moving processes, Mr Roe added, were being “strictly overseen at every stage” by specialist conservators.
“It has gone incredibly well so far. I am delighted with everyone’s efforts,” said Mr Roe of a project that has presented the team with some serious challenges.
Canon Christopher Irvine, the Cathedral’s Canon Librarian, said: “The Library is a vital resource for learning and research, and when the building project is complete, we look forward to exhibiting again our fine books.”
Pam Doyle, Executive Secretary of the Friends of the Cathedral, said: “We are thrilled to be able to match the grant from the Wolfson Foundation and enable this valuable restoration and conservation project to go ahead.”
Work will begin on the buildings in August, with the project expected to be completed by early next year.
For further information about Canterbury Cathedral and the Save Canterbury Cathedral Appeal log on to www.savecanterburycathedral.com or contact
Notes:
Books have played an important part in the life of the Cathedral since the time of
Very few items from the original medieval library now survive at
It is particularly rich in early printed material and books on church history, older theology, national and local history, travel, natural science, medicine and the anti-slavery movement.
The Library’s rooms include the Howley-Harrison Library, a room rebuilt over the Infirmary Cloister in 1664 and recently restored to its splendid 19th Century décor.
The Howley-Harrison Collection has around 16,000 books and pamphlets belonging to Archbishop William Howley and Archdeacon Benjamin Harrison, given to the Cathedral on the latter’s death in 1887 and including fine examples of early printing as well as contemporary material charting the history of the Victorian church.
The Friends of the Cathedral are a group of like-minded people who wish to become involved in the community and life of Canterbury Cathedral. The Friends provides a channel for individuals to show their support by joining in with activities and with direct giving.
The Friends have given millions of pounds towards many projects to help support the buildings, ornaments, furnishings and the life of the Cathedral. Projects have included: re-paving the Nave floor, repairs to
The Save Canterbury Cathedral Appeal reached the £9 million mark in November 2008.
It costs over £14,500 each day to run Canterbury Cathedral which includes £9,000 of daily running costs. Canterbury Cathedral receives minimal external funding and is dependent on its own resources and donations for funding.
