What stories do these walls hold? The Maitland Robinson Library stands before us. It is Downing College’s first purpose-built library. Before this building, the library resided in various rooms. It moved as the college expanded. Imagine books scattered across ten or eleven rooms.
Downing College waited over 190 years for this library. Statute X of the college made provisions for a library. However, a lack of space meant it wasn’t possible. The library finally has a home.
William Wilkins designed Downing College. His plans included a grand library. It would have been part of a south-facing building. Lack of funds meant the design never materialized.
John Bowtell bequeathed his book collection to Downing in 1813. This gift formed the library’s foundation. In 1820, the West Range was completed. This provided a space for the growing collection.
From 1825, funds were allocated to purchase books. A register of borrowed books began in 1853. Student numbers were low. Almost all borrowers were governing body members.
Around 1877, the library moved to two small rooms. These rooms were in the East Range. By 1903, the library was overcrowded again. Plans were made to move it to the former lecture room.
The current Maitland Robinson Library site was once stables. William Wilkins built the stables. The stables stood here until 1903.
In 1986, Downing College launched its Foundation Fund appeal. The goal was to raise money for a new library. Joseph Maitland Robinson donated to fund the library. Sadly, he died before construction began.
Joseph Maitland Robinson admired classical architecture. He wanted the library to be harmonious. He wanted it to fit in with its surroundings.
Various sites were considered for the library. The location near Regent Street was chosen. It allowed the college to make a statement. The building reflects the Greek revival character.
Harry Faulkner-Brown created a design brief for the new library. Quinlan Terry was chosen as the architect. He had designed other buildings for the college.
Quinlan Terry’s design was inspired by monuments in Athens. The building is built in Ketton stone. The portico of Augustus inspired the main entrance. The Tower of the Winds inspired the octagonal cupola. Greek names for the eight winds are inscribed on the faces. A griffin weathervane sits atop the building.
Construction began on March 25, 1991. The roof was completed in early 1992. Downing was visible from Parker’s Piece for the first time.
HRH The Prince of Wales and HRH The Duchess of Kent opened the Maitland Robinson Library on November 22, 1993. The library was named University Building of the Year. This was awarded by the Royal Fine Arts Commission.
Today, the Maitland Robinson Library stands as a landmark. It welcomes visitors to Downing College. The library is a testament to Joseph Maitland Robinson’s generosity. It serves current members of the college. Non-Downing guests are not permitted to use the library. Access is available 24/7 for Downing members.
The library catalogue is available online. You can borrow and renew books online. The library offers computer facilities. It is a wireless environment.
The Maitland Robinson Library continues to evolve. It adapts to the needs of Downing College students. It remains a vital resource for learning and research. A beacon of knowledge.