The rare book collection covers a wide range of subjects dating back to the sixteenth century.

The highlights include:

• Shakespeare’s Second Folio
• Serialised editions of Little Dorrit and Dombey and Son by Charles Dickens
• Robert Hooke’s Micrographia
• Edward Topsell’s History of Four Footed Beasts and Serpents
• The Suffragette and Votes For Women newspapers

We also hold special collections from the libraries of theatre enthusiast Roy Waters, and artist Lady Christiana Herringham.