Over the last few years, Cosin’s Library has been closed to the public, whilst undergoing extensive conservation work. Come with us for a behind the scenes peek at what has been going on!

Hear about the conservation of the building and book collection, what we have learnt so far about Cosin and his library, and how we are raising the profile of this hidden treasure among local and online communities.

With funding from Arts Council England, we are able to undertake a range of activities that help us increase our own understanding of the history of the library building and the books it houses, and to share what we have learnt.

Founded in 1669, Cosin’s Library on Palace Green sits at the heart of Durham City and the University. Possibly the earliest still surviving public library in the north east of England, its creation formed part of Bishop John Cosin’s ambitions to restore episcopal authority in the region after the upheavals of the English Civil War and Commonwealth.