Fun Facts Friday | Posted on April 9th, 2021 | return to news
5 fun facts about Wimborne Minster’s hidden treasure
When lockdown is finally eased and you are looking for places to visit, remember Wimborne Minster’s most treasured hidden gem.
The chained library is tucked away in the minster church itself and is accessed by a spiral staircase. Here are some facts to intrigue you.
1
Wimborne Minster’s chained library was founded in 1686.
2
It was Britain’s first public library and is rich with English history, particularly that of the Tudors.
3
The chained library is one of only a handful of similar surviving structures of its type in the UK.
4
The oldest tome dates back to the 14th century and was written on the skin of a sheep.
5
The corner of each book is bound to the wall by a chain, which is long enough for the book to be opened and read, but strong enough to ensure the books were not stolen.
Bonus fact
Chaining of books was not uncommon in Tudor times as tomes such as those in the minster were rare and expensive to make, meaning they were highly valuable.
The chained library used to be open on most days between 10.30am and 12.30pm, but lockdown has kept the library more secure than usual. Call 01202 884753 to find out when you can next visit this unique piece of hidden history. www.wimborneminster.org.uk
Follow us on
