The Library, College Publications and Public Relations

Abstract

When the college opened, James Joll, who undertook to be library supervisor, determined that its library should hold not only specialist books but also great works of literature.¹ The convent’s former chapel underwent alterations so that it could be used as a library from 1953 and a part-time librarian, Mrs Rickard, was appointed. After three years such was the accumulation of books that Mrs Rickard resigned, unable to devote enough time to the job.² This crisis prompted the formation in 1955 of a Library Committee, consisting of James Joll, the Warden, David Footman, Geoffrey Hudson and the Bursar as secretary. Its purpose was to deal with library finances and review the selection of books.³ At the same time the appointment of a full-time librarian was considered essential, and Anne Abley was chosen to fill the post.⁴ Footman took over the supervision of the library from Joll.⁵