Ever since language was first written down libraries have existed to store records and stories and provided a space for people to research and study. In this illustrated talk we travel the ancient world – from Mesopotamia to Alexandria and beyond – exploring some of the most famous libraries in history, the people who created them and the fate of their priceless collections of knowledge.  

Prepared for National Libraries Week in 2017 I hope this in-depth history of the creation of some of history’s earliest and greatest libraries gets a regular, annual airing! Libraries matter and I think this talk provides an excellent case for their defence – with an emphasis on how so many collections are now lost to us.

“A fascinating journey” Barnet Libraries 

FURTHER READING:

LIBRARIES IN THE ANCIENT WORLD by Lionel Casson

LIBRARY: AN UNQUIET HISTORY by Matthew Battles

THE OXFORD HISTORY OF GREECE AND THE HELLENISTIC WORLD by John Boardman