The Library is first mentioned in the Inn's records in 1471. It has important collections of rare books and manuscripts, not necessary connected to the law. The most important are the Hale Manuscripts, bequeathed by Sir Matthew Hale, Chief Justice of the King's bench in 1676.
The library is only open to all members of the Inn and all barristers with chambers in the Inn. Barristers who are not members are welcome to use the library but may not borrow. Solicitors may use the Library by appointment only. Litigants in persons and members of the public are not allowed to use the Library.
How did they get in?
(by pretending to be Bar students)
Pugin's Octagonal Marquetry Table
The Library holds about 150,000 volumes, the core of which is a comprehensive range of English legal materials for practitioners and bar students. Chancery practice is particularly catered for here.
An underage Bar student?
A sharp corner book shelf
I have spent my fair share of time here at the Library when I was a student. The Library still looks the same after 22 years.
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