As we transition into Autumn and returning to school, I dream about going to school in my own self-study way, so I am flashing back to my study time at Oxford this last Spring with my notebook reflections as I sat in the oldest part of the Bodleian Library, Oxford, the Duke Humfrey's Library. It is literally like stepping back in time, in sights and scents and atmosphere. So dreamy to sit there and write/read. Enjoy this reflection from my Oxford Notebook.
At last - back in the Duke Humfrey's Library for a little journal session before they close it at 5 pm. I took a quick stroll around, and picked an aisle all to myself to sit with the oldest books - sermons and theology. I smile. I can't help but smile here - the place exudes literary history. Was this the desk C.S. Lewis sat at to read some of the 16th century books as he wrote his tome on the whole of the 16th century, excluding drama? Who knows, but it is a potential, unless he sat in the same spot each time.
I breathe deep of the ancient book scent. Do people ever open these books? When was the last time these were opened? I wonder - has it been 250 years since any reader opened Stella In Evangelium Lucae? Mostly Latin isn't read these days unless you're at Oxford, Rome, or other high scholarship locations.
It seems appropriate to spend my last day here in the Duke Humfrey's Library. I've been wanting to come since I got here, but all the books I requested kept me busy in the other libraries. I am so thankful to come up here, round and round the creaking wooden stairs to this library that's been here since 1488, collecting books, going through rough patches of destruction during the reformation, restored, and expanded for scholars all the time. History rests in these hushed aisles amongst the old books. With subdued lighting it's peaceful and protected from harsh sunlight.
New Testament studies are above my head on the shelves. Anyone want to read the books Whitby on the New Testament Vol I and Vol II? I still can't believe I get to sit here, not even as a Oxford student. Just a regular person who thinks herself some kind of student. Oxford inspires me around every library-edged corner.
When I tell people about this place, they either don't understand, or they are very jealous and want to come. I take photos, but you can't capture the atmosphere and scent. The feel of the wood or the floor. The sounds or the halls and stairs to get here. Who gets to dust between the books I wonder? Do they want help?
How to enjoy the library when you have to leave in 10 minutes now? You sit and soak. Soak in the atmosphere. Write a few words trying to capture it. Stare at the books, notice the details. Smile at the age of this place. The history that this library has seen. How it hasn't changed except for updated security.
Appreciate it to the full.
Be thankful. Lord, you are so good. This place is a gift.
Breathe in that aged book scent and tuck those memories into your mind.
I jot notes in pencil to remember my experience and time spent here today. Can time please slow down? I have to go soon, too soon. The library will close. The silence in here late at night must be deafening. Those bookish ghosts must have a field day.
Is it the most ancient, atmospheric library? Right here, sink into it, let the silence fill you and the scene you take in inspire you. It's a beauty the bookish & history lover will embrace. These books have seen so much of the passage of time, and it continues, on and on. May I share in this time for the tiny blip that it is in the grand length of it.
The bell has rung - the library is closed.
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