Marking International Literacy Day, our students explore the rich history, rare collections, and timeless beauty of the Bodleian.
Year 12 students had the incredible opportunity to step into one of the world’s most famous centres of learning — the Bodleian Libraries at the University of Oxford. The visit offered a fascinating glimpse into the history of reading, knowledge preservation, and academic discovery.
Exploring a World of Knowledge
Students began their tour learning about the Bodleian’s long and storied past, including the extraordinary measures once taken to protect its priceless collections. From keeping books on upper floors to prevent theft to the early practice of chaining volumes to shelves, the library’s history vividly came to life.
The group was also introduced to the Gladstone Link, a modern underground passage that helps transport books efficiently between different libraries. As one of the UK’s six copyright libraries, the Bodleian receives a copy of every book published in the country, requiring constant innovation in storage — including sealed underground vaults to protect its ever-growing collection.
Stepping Back in Time
The visit concluded in the Bodleian’s oldest reading room, where students could picture a time when scholars studied alongside chained books, sparking connections between centuries of learning.
Year 12 student Amy reflected on the experience:
“My visit to the Oxford library was incredible. I saw how they store and protect so many ancient books. I loved learning about its old history and seeing the special, hidden rooms with rare manuscripts. It was like stepping into the past and has made me appreciate history even more.”
Fellow Year 12 student Jeslyn shared her thoughts:
“It was an eye-opening experience for me, and I truly enjoyed learning about the history of the Radcliffe Camera and how the books were carefully preserved. Being able to set my eyes upon books from medieval times was also fascinating.”
A Celebration of Literacy and Lifelong Learning
The trip served as a timely reminder of the value of literacy, coinciding with International Literacy Day. The Bodleian’s vast collections embody the transformative power of books and the role they play in shaping our understanding of the world.
At Oxford International College, we aim to nurture a love for learning and discovery. Experiences like this not only enrich our students’ academic journey but also inspire them to engage more deeply with the past, present, and future of knowledge.
