On 17th October 1964 the Bodleian Law Library formally opened its doors… 60 years on, the library still looks remarkably similar to the day it opened!
Readers still enter via the original wood and glass doors and step into the reading room which is filled with light from the skylight above. The desks, chairs and lamps which fill the central section of the reading room are original as are the bookcases and the desks situated next to the windows.
As readers look up to the Gallery floor, they will see the original white panels that surround the reading room. Above their heads is the skylight which was completely removed and replaced in 2019-2020.
Walking up to the Gallery floor reveals original 1960s seating, desks, and shelving with views over to the centre of Oxford and University Parks.
The lower two floors of the library are where most of the changes have been made.
The 2016 refurbishment included a lift to all floors. The first floor is home to the Law Library’s Seminar Room with its round wooden table and booklined shelves.
It is on the ground floor where modern times really make themselves felt. The floor houses the collection in rolling case stock. As well as law materials, the Bodleian’s Official Papers collection can be found here. The floor is also home to three small discussions room and a large IT Room.
Operating a huge library within a Grade 2* listed building has its challenges, most notably the lack of power sockets!. But, the beautiful finish of the Law Library creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The light cascades through the skylight to create lovely shadows and catches the warmth of the wooden shelving and desks.
The Law Library staff are immensely proud to work in such a wonderful library and we look forward to celebrating the LawBod’ s 100th birthday in 2064!
