Residents and visitors to Boston are being offered the chance to view a historic book collection that dates back as far as 1170 as St Botolph’s library opens its doors to the public for the first time.
The Stump’s library, which was established in 1634, has recently undergone a complete refurbishment, made possible by Town Deal Funding, to secure the future of this important heritage asset.
The sensitive works, which have included wall repairs, new décor, UV filters, temperature control, and new bookcases, mean the historically important book collection can be retained at St Botolph’s for people now, and for future generations to enjoy.
The refurbishment of the library was identified as a priority after the building conditions, temperature, and light posed a risk to the preservation of this collection in recent years.
Now, with the works complete, the Parish of Boston is running public tours of the library where visitors will be able to see the collection that includes early editions of Foxe’s Book of Martyrs by Boston-born John Foxe.
St Botolph’s library is one of Boston’s best kept secrets, hosting a unique collection of books that includes a copy of St Augustine’s Work on Genesis which is over 850 years old.
Before the improvements, the conditions in the library meant that the books were at risk of decaying, which is why we were never able to invite the public into this space.
Now, however, I’m thrilled that we can open the collection up to the public, and invite both local residents, and visitors from the UK and around the world to come in and see these amazing books.
Chris LadnerReader and Parish Resource Officer for St Botolph’s commented:
The improvements to the library are being complemented by the installation of a lighting scheme at the Stump which will create a better lit space internally and provide new external lighting of the whole building, including for displays.
With the new lighting installed, St Botolph’s will be able to be lit up in different colours to mark special occasions and causes, impressively illuminating this part of town.
The library and lighting works have received £200k in funding through Boston Town Deal.
The refurbishment of the library has been transformational. The improved building conditions mean that we can guarantee the future of this incredible book collection in the town, and allow people to be able to visit and experience this impressive and important space and collection.
The Stump is Boston’s historical centrepiece, an iconic building of which people are rightfully proud, and the investment in the library renovation and the lighting will enhance the space even more, and will help to bring people in to enjoy St Botolph’s, and the town as a whole.
The Town Deal funding has been utilised to enhance one of the most iconic heritage assets within the town and to specifically contribute to its tourism offer through public access to its nationally significant library. I would encourage people to take the opportunity to visit the Stump’s library if you can, and experience its heritage first-hand.
Neil KempsterChair of Boston Town Deal Board
Councillor Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, representing the Boston community, expressed her delight at the opening of St Botolph’s historic library to the public. She praised the efforts made possible by Town Deal funding to refurbish and preserve this significant heritage asset.
Cllr Dorrian emphasised the importance of such initiatives in safeguarding our cultural heritage for current and future generations to enjoy. She would like to encourage residents and visitors alike to take advantage of the opportunity to explore this unique collection of books, now made accessible
through the recent improvements.
Anyone – including schools and community groups – wishing to take part in a tour of St Botolph’s Library can get in touch with the team to book their place by emailing
adam.kelk@parishofboston.co.uk or calling the Parish Office via (01205) 310929.
*You can view a film about the library and lighting works here:
https://youtu.be/6sjYzDcQ9zE?si=llD_xOxkDnBdR1ES
Before
After
