Readers Were Caged In This Library In The 18th Century, The Reason Is Astonishing

Readers Were Caged In This Library In The 18th Century, The Reason Is Astonishing

By Tricky Brick / March, 28, 2024

Marsh Library which was home to some really great and rare books was founded by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh in 1707. The surprising fact is that the library still holds its position after all these years and certain books haven’t left those shelves.

However, one thing that makes this library unique from all others in the world is the presence of cages. If we delve into the details of the infrastructure of Marsh Library, then we can specify that it had alcoves, a total of three, with wire doors.

You might be wondering the reason for the “caged” design of the library in the 18th century! It has a really valid reason. There were cases of lost books reported within 10 years of the opening of the library. Some of the books were really rare and expensive leading to a situation of loss.

The authorities needed to take stern action after such incidents and so, they did!

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After the implementation of the new rules, the readers were only allowed to pick their book of choice which had a high worth if they gave their consent to sit in the recessed section of the room. This rule was followed for a long time.

Marsh library was actually the first library in Ireland to make this concept a reality. After all these years, those cages are still a part of the library, but now, the visitors and readers are not expected to sit in the alcove to read. So, you can go ahead and experience the history in Dublin through this library!

As far as we can tell, avid readers don’t care about the surroundings as long as they have the book they wanted in their hands. Their minds don’t wander and cages or not, they just want a peaceful place to spend time with their books.

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