A Rare Opportunity to Explore a Historic Library

The Ushaw Historic House near Durham is offering a unique chance for the public to access its vast library, which is typically reserved for researchers. On August 9, the library will open its doors to the public for the first time as part of its inaugural book festival.

A Treasure Trove of Historical Books

The library boasts an impressive collection of 50,000 items, including rare and historic books such as Sir Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica. Sanjay Gidda, an official at Ushaw, expressed his excitement about welcoming a wider audience to the library, stating that this event is one of the most exciting cultural days the institution has ever organized.

Highlights of the Library’s Collection

As part of the book festival, the library will showcase its copy of the Nuremberg Chronicle Illustrated Encyclopaedia, dated 1493. This book is a comprehensive report on Christian history from creation to the early 1490s. With only about a thousand copies in existence worldwide, this is a truly rare and significant artifact. The library also houses a smaller, cheaper edition of the Nuremberg Chronicle, printed four years later, of which only a few hundred copies have survived.

Other Notable Works in the Library

In addition to the Nuremberg Chronicle, the library is home to other notable works, including Charles Darwin’s Origin of the Species. The library also features dozens of books that were printed during the earliest days of the printing press in Europe, known as Incunabula. These rare and historic books are a testament to the library’s rich and diverse collection.

A Chance to Explore the Library

The book festival on August 9 offers a unique opportunity for the public to explore the Ushaw Historic House library and discover its many treasures. With its vast collection of rare and historic books, the library is a must-visit destination for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.