Bodleian Library

Usually referred to as the 'Bod', Oxford University's main library has legal deposit status, which entitles it to claim a free copy of every book published in the UK and Eire (apparently the Bodleian specialises in books by people beginning with M...).

Oxford University
Library

The world-famous Bodleian Libraries is a must-see cultural destination in the heart of Oxford.

The Bodleian Library was founded by Sir Thomas Bodley and officially opened in 1602. Today, together with the other libraries which serve the University of Oxford, the Bodleian is the largest academic library system in the UK. In its reading rooms generations of famous scholars have studied through the ages, amongst them monarchs, Nobel Prize winners, British Prime Ministers and writers including Oscar Wilde, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.

At the site, you can explore historic spaces that you might recognise from popular films and TV series such as The Favourite, Endeavour, Harry Potter and A Discovery of Witches. We also offer free, inspiring exhibitions featuring the libraries’ rich collections, two unique gift shops, and a lovely café.

Find out more here.