The Library Book by Clare Mulley

The Gibson Library has been described as a “microcosm of one of the world’s great libraries” and since its formation in 1832 as the Saffron Walden Literary and Scientific Institution, it has certainly acquired a remarkable collection of books dating from about 1350 to the present day.

Author Clare Mulley invites readers to explore a selection of these fascinating volumes, from illuminated manuscripts to original Leveller and Ranter tracts published during the English Civil War; from the first edition of Samuel Johnson’s Dictionary to working-class autobiographies of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The reader is also introduced to many of the librarians, controversial authors and book collectors who have inspired and shaped the Library and its collections.

First published 2025.

Soft cover; 128pp.

Size: 210mm x 210mm. Weight: 440g.

We are very grateful for any amount of financial support you can give towards the upkeep of this unique and historic treasure. Funds raised will go towards expanding our collection, book conservation and repair, and maintaining and improving facilities for our visitors. Your help is much appreciated