Courses & Learning
The Library
The Library at Woodbrooke is a place of peace set aside for quiet reflection, study and research within the faith community of the college. It has recently been completely refurbished to allow for temperature control and better disabled access, as well as a more comfortable browsing environment.
Browse the library catalogue online or view the latest list of books received by the library here.
The Quaker Library
Second only to Friends House Library in the wealth of its holding this section of our library consists of about 10,000 items dating from the 17th century to the present day. All substantial British Quaker publications are stocked, as well as many more ephemeral items from Britain and many important books from abroad. Full runs of major pamphlet series, over 100 current Quaker periodicals, some microfilms and a number of relevant PhD theses are also kept.
Together with the Bevan-Naish Collection it contains over half of all items published in the 17th century by Quakers.
To download the Quaker periodicals catalogue, please click here.
The Main Library
This part of the library reflects the interests and concerns of Quakers today, with substantial sections on peace, conflict resolution, theology, gender issues, Biblical studies, social justice and areas of faith in action. It provides material for Woodbrooke courses with further and peripheral reading for those engaged in Quaker Studies.
The Bevan-Naish Collection
This special collection consists of early books, tracts and a few manuscripts by Quaker authors and on Quaker topics, many of them 17th and 18th century. This is not only a resource for scholars, but a source of inspiration for all Quakers.
Use of the Library
The library is normally open to Woodbrooke residents 24 hours daily. Non-residents are usually welcome during normal office hours or by arrangement. The Librarian is normally available 4 days a week. Please note that non-residents must register with him before using the library for the first time so it is advisable to make an appointment. Borrowing is restricted to certain items and is at the discretion of the librarian.
There is a fact sheet for visually impaired users of Woodbrooke Library which can be downloaded by clicking here or you can view the page online.
