“Did you know that this library holds the original diaries of Samuel Pepys?” I ask. Welcome to the Pepys Library at Magdalene College Cambridge. This isn’t just any collection of books. It’s a time capsule a snapshot of 17th-century life.
Samuel Pepys a man of influence and a devoted bibliophile bequeathed his entire library to Magdalene College. His incredible collection arrived in 1724. It was housed in a new building. The Pepys Building stands as a testament to his legacy. It is a remarkable structure.
The library contains over 3000 items. Among them are medieval manuscripts early printed books by Caxton and Wynkyn de Worde. There are also naval records reflecting Pepys’s time as Secretary to the Admiralty. You’ll find works by his contemporaries and even Newton’s Principia Mathematica. A unique array of ephemera including letters playbills and invitations completes this remarkable collection.
The books remain exactly as Pepys left them. They are still arranged by size in the original bookcases. Imagine the meticulous care taken to preserve this collection. It’s a testament to the enduring power of knowledge and the vision of a man who wanted to share his treasures with future generations. These aren’t just old books they are a window to the past. Each book carries a story. Each page whispers tales of a bygone era.
Pepys even dictated how his books should be arranged. His instructions were so precise that they were followed for centuries. The original bookcases remain today. They are a testament to his commitment to preserving his collection. His original catalogue and shelf list also remain. They are part of this remarkable collection.
The Pepys Library is more than just a repository of books. It is a living testament to the importance of preserving history. It showcases the intellect and passions of Samuel Pepys a fascinating man who lived in an extraordinary time. It is a collection for scholars and history enthusiasts alike. A true treasure of Cambridge and indeed the world. So take a moment absorb the atmosphere of this unique place. Let the history and the stories transport you to another time.