The day revealed the concept of book compilation, paper ranges, type of book coverings, stitching, pressing and styling techniques, which are suited to many of the unique volumes held in the library.

Ruth Muttlebury, President of Plymouth Proprietary Library, said: "We were delighted to welcome Rebecca to Plymouth and enjoy learning what is evidently a skilled profession specifically suited to historic libraries. Valuable advice has been gained."

The course was part of a programme of training provided within a project, supported by a grant of £9,900 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). The project will also enable the digitization of important books and manuscripts held in the library, alongside the production of exhibition and presentation materials that will help raise the profile of the library within the local community. The training programme also includes a series of courses ranging from archivist skills to conservation work.

Richard Bellamy, the HLFs acting Head of South West, said: "The Plymouth Proprietary Library demonstrates the city’s longstanding literary tradition, and it is home to a number of unique and irreplaceable documents. The training programme being supported by our grant award not only helps to protect the library’s important collection but ensures that local volunteers have the opportunity to be involved with it and help preserve it for future generations."

Amongst documents held in the library, which is the oldest in Plymouth, are secretarial scripts of an Anne Boleyn letter, Francis Bacon letters, 17th-century Pindar scripts, a Jacobite bible and a collection of Courts Martial papers dating back to the 1700s.

Plymouth Proprietary Library will be participating in Heritage Day this year on Saturday 8 September when the doors will be open to the public and the wide range of books included in the HLF-supported project will be displayed.

Notes to editors

Plymouth Proprietary Library was founded in 1810 by famous local names such as George Eastlake and Henry Woollacombe. The original building designed by the classical architect John Foulston, was located in the old Cornwall Street. Destroyed by enemy action in March 1941, the library re-located to Alton Terrace on North Hill, where it remains to this day. The Cottonian Collection, presently housed in Plymouth Museum, was originally displayed in Plymouth Proprietary Library. 

Further information

Enquiries regarding Plymouth Proprietary Library and the Heritage Lottery Fund grant can be made by telephoning the duty staff on 01752 660 515 or e-mailing: plymouthproprietarywriters@gmail.com.