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Image Licensing : Chained Library CC78_00195
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Chained Library CC78_00195
Wimborne Minster, Dorset. The chained library was founded in 1686 and was one of the first public libraries in the country. Photographed in July 1898 for the London Midland and Scottish Railway. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England Archive
Media ID 12409302
Filename: cc78_00195.jpg
Size: 4986 x 3666 (11.3MB)
Date: 11th August 2016
Source: Historic England
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph transports us back in time to the enchanting Chained Library of Wimborne Minster, Dorset. Taken in July 1898 by the London Midland and Scottish Railway, this image showcases a remarkable piece of history that has withstood the test of time. Established in 1686, the Chained Library was one of England's earliest public libraries, serving as a beacon for knowledge seekers throughout centuries. The library's significance lies not only in its age but also in its unique method of book preservation: chains. Each precious volume is securely fastened to wooden shelves with delicate metal chains, ensuring their safekeeping while allowing visitors to peruse their contents. The ambiance captured within this print is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Rows upon rows of ancient books line the walls from floor to ceiling, creating an atmosphere steeped in wisdom and intellectual curiosity. The dim lighting adds an air of mystery, inviting us to explore these literary treasures further. As we gaze at this snapshot frozen in time, we can't help but imagine generations past who have wandered through these hallowed halls seeking enlightenment or escaping into worlds created by authors long gone. This image serves as a poignant reminder that libraries are not merely repositories for books; they are gateways to new ideas and windows into our collective human experience. Let us cherish this extraordinary glimpse into history—a testament to the enduring power of literature and our insatiable thirst for knowledge—preserved forever within this mesmerizing.
