Bodleian Library
On Gingerguide's self-guided Oxford audio tour, Bodleian Library is a stop worth about ~60 min. Stand in front of it, press play for a short narrated story, and put any follow-up question to the built-in AI guide.
- Type university
- Suggested visit ~60 min
- Oxford Oxford guide
About Bodleian Library
One of the oldest libraries in Europe and the main research library of the University of Oxford, housing over 13 million items.
The Bodleian Library is the main research library of the University of Oxford and one of the oldest libraries in Europe. It was founded in 1602 by Sir Thomas Bodley and has been a legal deposit library since 1610, meaning it is entitled to a copy of every book published in the United Kingdom. Today it holds over 13 million printed items across its buildings.
Did you know? Every reader must swear an oath not to bring fire into the library, even King Charles I was refused permission to borrow a book.
How much time do you need at Bodleian Library?
Around ~60 min works well for Bodleian Library — time to look properly and listen to its story on the spot. Linger if you like; nothing on a self-guided walk is on a clock.
Should you stop at Bodleian Library?
Yes — Bodleian Library made the cut as one of 12 places the Gingerguide team researched and narrated across Oxford. The story tells you why it is worth the stop, and the AI guide fills in anything you still wonder.
Nearby stops in Oxford
Hear the story of Bodleian Library
Preview the Oxford tour free in the Gingerguide app.