Bodleian Libraries - Tours and Show and Tells
Bodleian Library, Broad Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 3BG
11-12noon, 1–2pm, 2- pm: Maps Show and Tell
Explore some of the Bodleian’s marvellous map collections with a Show & Tell behind the scenes from staff members of the Bodleian Map Room. Show & Tells are free, but spaces are limited so booking is essential. Age restricted to 11+ only.
11-11:45 & 2-2:45: Portrait Tours
Take a tour of the portraits behind the scenes in the Weston Library and discover new stories such as that of Edmund Halley, the astronomer who first predicted the return of comets. The portraits offer a fascinating record of social and academic history and feature a diverse mix of people with connections to the University of Oxford, the world of literature and of course Bodley’s Librarians. Tours are free but booking is essential as spaces are limited. Age restricted to 11+ only.
11:30-12 & 1:30–2: Conservation Tours
Take a tour of the Bodleian Conservation Studio behind the scenes in the Weston Library and discover how the team preserve, repair and care for the wonderous collections of the Bodleian Libraries and take care of our historic spaces. Tours are free but booking is essential as spaces are limited. Age restricted to 11+ only.
Booking will be available directly from the Bodleian libraries from 24 August 2026. See: https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/events-exhibitions
Timings
- Saturday 12 September:
- See specific event for timings
- Sunday 13 September:
- See specific event for timings
Location & directions
Bodleian Library, Broad Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 3BG
- Directions:
- This event will take place in Blackwell Hall in the Weston Library.
- Contact on day:
- Anna Clark
- Telephone number:
- +441865242918
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Booking will be available directly from the Bodleian libraries from 24 August 2026. See: https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/events-exhibitions
Accessibility details
Ground-level entrance with wheelchair access in both the Weston Library and directly from the Old Schools Quadrangle, Old Bodleian Library. Access to first level areas for tours and show and tells is available via lift access. All ages and abilities are welcome to visit and participate. Please find more information regarding access at the Bodleian Libraries here: https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/plan-your-visit/accessibility
Additional information
The Weston Library Cafe will be open to purchase refreshments. Map Show & Tell: max 15 places per tour. Portrait Tours: max 15 places per tour. Conservation tours: max 12 places per tour.
