The Plymouth Public Library (Plymouth Proprietary Library), one of the oldest surviving subscription libraries in the UK, was established in 1810 amidst the civic pride fuelled by Plymouth's growth as a significant provincial town due to its shipbuilding and naval importance. The library emerged as a distinct institution dedicated to the "general diffusion of science and literature." Notable founders included George Eastlake, Henry Woollcombe, John Hawker, and Edmund Lockyer, with architect John Foulston designing the library's first building in Cornwall Street. 

Over time, the library became more inclusive, seeing an increase in female membership and acknowledging their requests for new literature, though some committee members resisted these changes. World Wars I and II saw various fluctuations in library operations, culminating in tragedy when an incendiary bomb destroyed the original library in 1941, levelling its vast collection of around 35,000 books [image 4]. 

After this loss, the Plymouth Proprietary Library re-established itself in North Hill soon afterwards, [image 5]. A fire in 1969 further damaged their holdings. In recent years, the Plymouth Proprietary Library sold its North Hill building but continues to operate, now housed at St Barnabas Terrace, highlighting its resilience and enduring legacy in Plymouth's cultural landscape, while adapting to evolving membership needs and historical challenges.

I0017 – Issue Book Plymouth Proprietary Library.

Whilst the stickers on the front of the book are dated 1995, this issue book contains all details of items borrowed from Plymouth Proprietary Library from 2004 – 2007.

I0018 – Floor Plans

The floor plans for the Plymouth Proprietary Library. These plans were drawn up by Plymouth Architect: Victor C. L. Saunders. Saunders was also the architect for several other remorable Plymouth buildings, notably the Methodist hall in Roborough.

Drawn by WAJA (1951) – Victor C. L. Saunders Architect – 1 Sussex Street, Plymouth.

I0019 – Research Papers: History of the Library

Photocopies of several documents which map the history of the opening of the library. These documents show the beginnings of the Proprietary Library, originally called Plymouth Public Library, and contains several newspaper articles, a list of signees and some photographs of the various sites it has occupied. The Plymouth Public Library was established in 1810 and aimed to promote the dissemination of knowledge and culture through literature. Founded by prominent figures like George Eastlake, Henry Woollcombe, John Hawker, and Edmund Lockyer, the original library building was designed by architect John Foulston. The newsroom became a popular hub, demonstrating the community's commitment to accessible reading and engagement in the cultural life of Plymouth.

I0020 – Plymouth Proprietary Library Reports 1880 – 1916

A book donated to the library in 1982 by an anonymous benefactor, this volume encompasses a diverse array of reports pertaining to the Plymouth Proprietary Library, including financial statements and minutes from annual meetings. Additionally, it provides comprehensive lists of proprietors for several years. The annual reports feature accounts of various details, including the number of books acquired, subscriber counts, and visitation statistics related to the Cottonian Collection.

I0021- Various correspondence

A bundle containing various letters to the Plymouth Proprietary Library. Examples include a letter which outlines any books which were missing and a letter of resignation from one proprietor.

I0022 – Letters from Christie Manson and Woods

A series of letters between Serpell of the Plymouth Proprietary Library and Christie Mason and Woods, 1928. These letters pertain to the sending of several pictures by Richard Wilson, John Opie, and “Mr Weekes” to an auction house, Christie Manson and Woods, alongside valuations of these pieces. 

I0023 – Proprietor documentation

A document which grants share 181 of the library to Charles Serpell making him a proprietor. Serpell was a solicitor who is present on many of the library’s legal documentation of this era.

I0024 – Lease Documentation

A bundle of papers which pertain to the Plymouth Proprietary Library leasing parts of the Library to local shops including Dingles.

I0025 – Images of the Plymouth Proprietary Library

A series of photographs and other images of the Plymouth Proprietary Library throughout the years. This collection includes an early illustration by E Allen of the library entitled “Plymouth Public Library” and a photocopy of said image; a photograph mounted on a wooden board of the reading room by Foulston (architect) also with photocopy, a photograph of the library in its North Hill location, and a photocopy of a photograph of the original building just after it was bombed in World War Two.

I0026 – How to Find a Book

An introduction to the Dewey decimel classification of books. Full title: How to find a book: A reader’s guide to the arrangement of books on the shelves of the lending department of the library.

This book is most likely from the 1950s due to the publisher Libraco Limited having been prolific in producing literature on libraries in this period.

I0027 – Plymouth Weekly Journal

A collection of 11 letters which passed between the Plymouth Proprietary Library and Plymouth Central Library regarding the relocation of an early 1735 edition of the Plymouth Weekly Journal newspaper. The newspaper was found to be rather rare, and so the Plymouth Proprietary Library retained ownership of the item which was one of the few pieces which survived the bombing of the Plymouth Proprietary Library in WWII.

Correspondence

I0028 – Letters Regarding Relocation

A bundle of letters dated from 1941 and 1942 which address the relocation of the Plymouth Proprietary Library. The letters contain a series of requests to rent various properties around Plymouth, arrangements for moving to temporary premises and other items of day to day matters in getting the library back up and running.

I0029 – Membership applications

A set of membership application cards. Whilst these are undated, they do allude to an intention to acquire a permanent premises and so can be dated to the early or mid 1940s. It is possible that these particular editions were printed later though. They give the rates of membership and types of membership available. They also list the amenities of the library at this time.

I0030 – Letter from E. L. Harris

A letter dated 1953 from E.L. Harris of the Devon and Cornwall Natural History Society. This letter invites the Plymouth Proprietary Library to join them for their Anniversary meeting which was held on April 30th. E.L. Harris was the general secretary of the society.

I0031 – Arrangement of Books

A framed sign from the library which details the arrangement of books within the library.  This item has had several handwritten annotations where changes to locations had taken place.

I0032 – Application for membership

An application form and price list for membership from 1993. This document outlines the costs of various memberships and the three different types of membership: Personal, Full and student.

I0033 – An Unidentified Photograph

An unidentified photograph from 1957, featuring a building. The back is inscribed “The Sop Kitchen, 1957”

I0034 – Misc Plymouth Proprietary Library Letters 1930s

A bundle of misc letters pertaining to the day to day running of the Plymouth Proprietary Library from 1931 – 1932.

I0035 – An unsigned letter regarding the fire at Plymouth Proprietary Library

An unsigned letter which pertains to the bombing of the Plymouth Proprietary Library in 1941. The letter is not signed unfortunately and whilst it is not dated, the content denotes it was likely written shortly after the events of the bombing and fire in 1941.

I0036 – Historical notes.

An un-identified researcher’s notes on the History of the Plymouth Proprietary Library. This is most likely dated circa 1980s.

I0001 A Select Manual of Godly Prayers.

This prayer book is a unique item held by the Plymouth Proprietary Library and no other copies have been located within England thus far. The author and original owner are unknown; however, Father Gregory Carpenter [pictured] has studied the item and suggests it was likely commissioned and owned by a local squire or landowner who was affluent enough to maintain his own chapel.  

The book gives no hint to its original publisher, holding simply a date and city of publication: London. There is a decorative motif above the city, but as yet this is not identified. The book is inscribed from a Mrs Hyland to Thos Lloyd. There are no families with the surname Hyland living in Plymouth registered in Plymouth in earliest census (1841). However there might have been earlier and this warrants more research. There is a chance the giftee could be Thomas Lloyd, a well-known Navy Architect who was appointed from Portsmouth to Plymouth Dockyard in 1819 where he helped to develop a type of Marine engine. If this was the case, the item was possibly gifted from somebody outside of the Plymouth area at this time making it difficult to place.  This is, however, conjecture only and warrants further research.
 

More information can be found in the research booklet “Godly Prayers, 1716” by Rev Gregory Carpenter, 2015 (also held at the Plymouth Proprietary Library)

The front matter (modernised) reads:
A select manual of godly prayers with a short, easy and secure introduction to the true faith, explained, according, the profitable familiar way of question, and answer, (as commonly practiced in teaching the Christian Doc-trin) For the consolation of righteous believers, and for the light, and conversion of erroneous professors of Christianity.

I0002  Godly prayers 1716

A copy of the book and manuscript of Father Gregory Carpenter which details his research into the book A Select Manual of Godly Prayers (available at the library Item: I0001). This collection comprises four items: A printed pamphlet (2015) which gives an analysis of the 1716 book A Select Manual of Godly Prayers as held by the Plymouth Proprietary Library.  A manuscript of that same book. It also contains several pieces of correspondence and notes regarding the book. One of these letters is dated 1956 and references Mr David Rogers of the Bodleian Library.

I0003 – Observations on Several Parts of England, especially the Mountains and Lakes of Cumberland and Westmoreland.

Two books bound in grey which were published by T Cadell and W Davies, Strand in 1808. The books were written in 1772 but not published until approx. 1786. This is a third edition of this book and was published in 1808. Gilpin was a well-known travel writer for his time, he was also an amateur artist and enjoyed sketching and drawing. He was especially interested in aesthetics within landscape. Both tomes are partially illustrated using various prints of his landscapes. 

William Gilpin was quite a prolific writer and it's true that quite a few copies of his work have survived. They have also - for the most part - been fully digitised and are available in several digital archives.

Also see I0013 for Observations on the Scottish Highland.

I0004 – Court Hand Restored, or, the Student’s Assistant in Reading Old Deeds, Charters, Records Etc.

This fourth edition book was published in approx. 1815. It comprises of a collection of copper plate engravings in Latin. It was printed for R Bickerstaff – Essex Street, The Strand. This book also contains a reprint of the original 1st Edition introduction.  It was donated to the Plymouth Proprietary Library in 1951 by C.W Bracken. Notes in pencil in the front of the book note the original publication date of the first edition to have been 1773.

The book was written by Andrew Wright, but was undertaken at the request of Lord Hawke – Baron of Towton. (Most likely from the dates to be Martin Hawke, 2nd Baron Hawke).

The National Trust also have four copies of this book. It seems they all have the same 4th edition copy from 1815. A version of a later edition (1879) is available in several online archives and to purchase (valued approx. £30 in 2025) however there are no available copies of this edition to purchase online.

I0005 – 4 Prints of Plymouth

Edward and William Finden were brothers, both engravers. The pair worked both together and separately. They most famously produced the engravings for “The life and Works of Byron” which was published some ten years after Lord Byron’s death. Both brothers were popular artists and were in great demand for their portraiture.

Print 1 – “Plymouth, Devon”. Engraved by William Finden. Printed by George Virtue, of 26 Ivy Lane. Pencil marks note the date of this one to be 1840.  George Virtue published his pictorial books of engravings from 1836 – 1844 so this could quite possibly be correct.

Print 2 – Plymouth from Greenbank.  This print is attributed to H Besley (Exeter) who was publishing such images in approx. 1860.

Print 3 – Garrison at Plymouth. This print does not have an identifiable printer’s mark. Engraved by Newton (Possibly James Newton).  Date unknown.

Print 4 – “Mount Edgecombe, Devon”. Engraved by E. Finden. Printed by Geo Virtue, Ivy Lane.  Drawn by J.D Harding, from a sketch by Jendle.

These prints are quite possibly from his book: Views from Devonshire published by Exeter: H. Besley, Directory Office, South Street, Exeter. 1860, however this needs to be checked. 

[Consider moving as they are one of only two non-book items in this box.] 

I0006 – Phillpott’s letter

This letter was written in 1941 by Eden Phillpotts (poet) to a friend to acknowledge a gift and then discusses the merits of books. The letter is addressed Kerswell, Broadclyst, Exeter and is signed at the bottom by Phillpotts. It is addressed to “Dear Elizabeth”

[Consider moving as they are one of only two non-book items in this box.] 

I0007 – Jane Eyre 3rd Edition

An 1848 edition of Jane Eyre which is attributed to Currer Bell (the pen name that Charlotte Bronte used prior to her final novel in 1853.) 

This 3-tome version of the first edition is quite rare. I recommend that the item is only handled with a librarian present due to condition.

The triple decker version of the 3rd edition is usually rarer than the single tome. There is a lot of variety in value for these but further research is needed. The condition will affect the value, sadly. 

I0008 – Beauty and the Heart

This 1801 translation of Hussen O Dil’s Beauty and the Heart is a fantastic example of a small press book. It is a first (only) edition, and is dedicated as a gift by the translator to his wife. The book was published by R. E Mercier which could well be a precursor to Mercier Press – Ireland’s oldest independent publisher.  

This is a rare book, and thus far research has uncovered no other copies available online or in internet archives. This edition is personally dedicated (and signed) by the translator (author) to his wife. This book serves as an exemplary illustration of what Edward Said characterised in 1973 as "Orientalism”. Georgian and Victorian Orientalism refers to the Western fascination with and representation of the East, particularly Middle Eastern and Asian cultures, during the Victorian era (1837-1901). It encompasses the romanticized, often stereotypical views, artistic depictions, and literary themes that portrayed Eastern societies as exotic, sensual, and sometimes inferior, reflecting Western attitudes of imperialism and colonialism.Said introduced the term "Orientalism" to provide a critical framework for understanding the Western world's frequently disparaging representations and interpretations of the Eastern world, or the Orient.

I0009 – The Tryal of King Charles.

A rare physical copy of the 1703 book, The Tryal of King Charles which was printed for H Playford and G Strawbridge. This book contains a series of speeches and a description of the trial of King Charles I including his own speech on the gallows. The events documented took place in 1649 and were documented and printed by H Playford (usually famed for his musical printing). Like many of his contemporaries in London, Playford was profoundly affected by the public execution of Charles I. 

Prior to this, he had published numerous political pamphlets especially in support of Charles I. This work led to a warrant for Playford's arrest and a brief period of change in tone, turning to publication of music. This book was first published much later in the latter half of the seventeenth century.  Few physical copies of this book survive to this day. This item is very delicate and should be handled with due care.

 “by the pretended high court of justice, Westminster hall. 1648. Together with his majesty’s speech on the gallows.” Tuesday Jan 30th 1648.

London, printed for H Playford in the temple change. And G Sawbridge, 1703.

This is a 4th edition, to which is added a historical preface by “a true churchman”.

This is quite a rare find. There is a digital archive edition and some reproductions of the book, however physical copies seem to exist only in other libraries so far (I have found 3 in university libraries).

Sadly this copy is deteriorating, and the cover is no longer attached which will affect its value.

I0010 – History of Cornish Military

A rare physical copy of The Civil and Military History of Cornwall by Richard Polwhele. (1760-1838). This book was published in 1806 by Cadell and Davies, London. The book contains an overview of the history of the militia in Cornwall as well as other historical details.  Richard Polwhele was an English clergyman born on January 6, 1760, who gained recognition as a poet and historian, particularly focusing on the regions of Cornwall and Devon. Polwhele’s contributions to literature and history helped to illuminate the local heritage and traditions of Cornwall, influencing subsequent generations of writers and historians. He passed away on March 12, 1838.

In the cover of this copy of the book, dated 1812, John Francis Howel has added many notes about the content of the book. Also added handwritten notes to the front of the book, included in which is a list of all of the subscribers of the Cornwall Lunatic Asylum. John Francis Howel is actually mentioned within the book (page 126) as vicar of the parish of St. Gluvias, near Penryn. He was also a landowner in Cornwall, having inherited from his brother and had links to Exeter. It is very likely that this book was in his possession from the date of publication.  

Interesting also because of John Francis Howel’s later notes in cover reg. a list of subscribers for the lunatic asylum in Cornwall which warrants transcription.

I0082 – Photograph After the Bombing

On the night of the 21st March, 1841, an incendiary bomb as part of enemy action struck the Plymouth Proprietary Library premises on Cornwall Street and set it alight. Luckily nobody was hurt or killed, however the library, and most of the books (other than those out on loan at the time), were destroyed.  This photograph [pictured] shows the remains of the building after the fire. It is framed and has previously been displayed.

I0083 – Athenaeum reports, 1883 - 90

I0084 – Laws and Regulations

12 pamphlets from varying years which contain the rules for members of the PPL. Dated:
1915 (2 copies), 1936, and 1953 (9 copies). These items make an interesting study of how membership rules changed and evolved over a 38 year period. The 1815 edition also has a note added later which outlines the committee members and chairman.

I0085 – Transactions of the Plymouth Institution – Devon and Cornwall Natural History Society.

This item contains both a book and a short pamphlet produced by the Devon and Cornwall Natural History Society. The book contains annual reports and transactions of the society. It is labelled Volume 5, dated 1876. It was printed in Plymouth by W Brendon and Son, 1878.

The additional pamphlet is dated to 1944 and is an additional supplement to Volume 18. It contains an article on Plympton Grange Manor House.

The Plymouth Athenaeum, originally established as the Plymouth Institution and Devon and Cornwall Natural History Society, in 1812, has resided at its current location since 1819. The original building was destroyed during the Blitz in 1941, along with its library and collections, which is when it changed its name to Plymouth Athenaeum.

I0086 – Library Catalogue Books

This item is made up for 5 different books. They primarily provide comprehensive catalogues for the Plymouth Proprietary Library, spanning the years 1824 to 1876, while also delineating the regulations established for its members. Such regulations encompass prohibitions against defacing volumes with pencil markings and stipulations regarding the timely return of borrowed materials. Additionally, these texts present a thorough inventory of the library's holdings, including books, maps, and newspapers. For the most part they were produced by H.C. Creagh from Wimple Street, Plymouth. Notably, historian Annika Bautz further examined the library's catalogues in her scholarly article, “Reading in the Provinces: Plymouth Public Library’s Nineteenth-Century Catalogues,” featured in the compilation Libraries, Books, and Collectors of Texts (Routledge, 2018, p. 174), where she analysed the selection of titles, the rationale behind those choices, and the influence of fiction within the catalogues. Bautz also investigated the interplay between business management and the library's operations, particularly concerning debt repayments incurred following the construction of the costly original premises on Cornwall Street.

I0087 – Cottonian and Plymouth Library Catalogue

This book, written and compiled by William Hunt, is another of the library’s collection of old library catalogues, however this one is notable by its inclusion of the newly acquired Cottonian Collection. Published 1854 by JB Rowe, Whimple Street, Plymouth.

I0088 – La Devina Commedia (the Devine Comedy), Italian 2nd edition.

This 1716 2nd edition of the Divine Comedy, while showing signs of minor moisture damage, remains a rare and intriguing artifact. It has been bound into modern cover (likely in the 20th century) seemingly for preservation of the original pages.

I0089 – Building Survey PPL North Hill

Taken from the book: The Story of the Cottonian Collection by Florence A Stanbury [pictured]. 

The Cottonian Collection is a collection of approx. 2000 volumes as well as many pieces of art and furniture Heled by The Box, Plymouth.  The Cottonian Collection was originally gifted to the Plymouth Proprietary Library in 1850 by the collector, William Cotton: MA/F.A.S (1794 – 1863) under the condition that it was maintained and that a separate room was built to contain it.  The conditions of the gift included that the item was named the Cottonian Library and that the room was invested in the names of the trustees. 

The Plymouth Proprietary Library would hold the collection in their premises on Cornwall Street until 1915, where the trusteeship was transferred via an act of parliament to the care of Plymouth Corporation. The collection was thereafter houses at the Plymouth Museum and Art Gallery and still resides in The Box to this day (Circa 2024). Whilst the Plymouth Proprietary Library no longer holds this collection, they do still appoint three representatives to the management committee, and the archive does still contain several pieces relating to it.

I0037 – Various Correspondence

A collection of letters from 1994 and 1998 which outlines the appointing of new representatives and trustees.

I0038 – Newspaper Article

A newspaper article from March 1998 regarding the Cottonian Collection

I0039 – Job Description

A job description for the position of curator of the Cottonian Collection in 1994

I0040 – Historical Furniture

Note: item contains 3 copies of the same pamphlet.

A pamphlet produced by Plymouth City Council in 2014

I0041 – Cottonian Library newspaper articles.

A printed booklet of articles from various newspapers which outline the transfer of the Cottonian Collection to Plymouth Museum. The book is circa 1942, however the articles reproduced within date back to 1816.

I0042 – Catalogue

This book (Circa approx. 1950 – 1960) is a catalogue for the Cottonian Collection as held by Plymouth Museum.  Whilst undated it was donated to the Plymouth Proprietary Library in 1962.

I0043 – The Story of the Cottonian Collection

Printed in 1992, the Story of the Cottonian Collection was authored by Florence A Stanbury for the Plymouth Museum (now The Box).

I0044 – A Newspaper Article

An article for the Plymouth Herald, printed Jan 17th, 2023. This article gives a brief history of the collection.

I0045 – Cotton Family Tree

A handwritten family tree of the Cotton family by an unknown researcher. This tree also has handwritten notes and research added to it. The notes attribute the research as being supplied by family descendants in the early 1980s. the document is dated 1984.

I0046 – Rising Fortunes

A photocopy of some 10 pages which detail the history of the Cotton Family. This appears to have been taken from a journal, and was authored by Gerald Hamilton-Edwards. Thus far it has been difficult to locate where it was originally published however research is ongoing. Dated approx. 1970s.

I0047 – Plymouth Proprietary Library photograph

A photocopy of a photograph showing the reading room at the Cornwall Street premises of the library. Somebody has handwritten 1930 on the edge of the photocopy.

I0048 – Leisure Services Minutes 94 – 97

The minutes for Plymouth County Council Leisure Services Meeting 1995 – 1997. These documents contain the discussion of the city’s museum collections and the trustee information which relates to the Cottonian Collection. This bundle also contains some policy documents.

I0049 – Misc Correspondence

A large bundle of correspondence which also includes some minutes and correspondence between Plymouth City Council Leisure Committee and the Plymouth Proprietary Library.

I0011 - The Italian by Ann Radcliffe

“The Italian, or the Confessional of the Black Penitents" is a seminal work of Gothic literature authored by Ann Radcliffe, published in 1796. Radcliffe's evocative prose and intricate plotting have cemented her status as a key figure in the development of the Gothic genre. This 3-volume edition was published a year later in 1797. It was published by T Cadell and W Davies in The Strand, London. This edition is delicate, and has some damage to the cover.

Quite rare and potentially valuable but sadly condition lets it down. It needs to be rebound as the front and back cover of the 1st volume have come loose.

I0012 – Then and Now, Or Fifty Years of Newspaper Work.

This book comprises of an account of William hunt’s work in newspapers, most notably in Devon and Plymouth as well as time spent working with the Western Morning News.

William Hunt was, previously to writing this book, the president of the Provincial Newspaper Society of Great Britian and Ireland. The book includes an early photograph of the author taken by Vander Wyde, and is signed underneath the picture. Whilst there are numerous articles attributed to Hunt, this does appear to be the only book he published. This item is in good condition and is a fine example.

Signed by the author, Ex-President of the Newspaper Society.

Hamilton Adams and co, 1887

Good condition.

I0013 – Observations on Several Parts of Great Britain, particularly the Highlands of Scotland. Gilpin.

2 books bound in grey which were published by T Cadell and W Davies, Strand in 1808. The books were written in 1772 but not published until approx. 1786. This is a third edition of this book and was published in 1808. Gilpin was a well-known travel writer for his time, he was also an amateur artist and enjoyed sketching and drawing. He was especially interested in aesthetics within landscape. Both tomes are partially illustrated using various prints of his landscapes. 

Please also see I0003 for The Mountains and Lakes of Cumberland and Westmoreland in this series. Same print series

I0014 – Architecture and History and Westminster Abbey.

A bound copy of the paper presented by William Morris to the Society for the Protection of Buildings in 1884. Quite likely the work of a small of private press it is likely this was produced in approximately the decade in which the talk took place. 

This item reflects Morris’ commitment to the Arts & Crafts Movement, emphasising the significance of handmade production amidst the industrialized landscape of the Victorian era. While Morris is primarily celebrated for his design work rather than architecture, this talk signifies a pivot in his later life towards writing and advocacy, illustrating his ongoing influence on the principles of craftsmanship and conservation during a transformative period in British history.

Small / personal press. A talk / paper given in 1884.

I0015 – Pamphlet – Relics of William Cookworthy.

William Cookworthy was an influential English Quaker minister and innovator known for being the first in Britain to create hard-paste porcelain, akin to that from China. He discovered China clay in Cornwall and established a porcelain factory in Plymouth in 1768, later relocating it to Bristol in 1770, where it became known as Bristol porcelain before selling his share in 1773. 

This pamphlet was produced many years after his death, with a publication date of 1853. The pamphlet discusses Cookworthy and some of his notable works.

The author, John Prideaux was a member of several local history societies in and around Plymouth. The publisher had a Plymouth and Devonport branch, so it is likely that this pamphlet was published there.

I0016 – Small Talk of Wreyland – Cecil Torr

This three-part set contains a charming collection of anecdotes around the people who lived in Wreyland (Lustleigh) in the Devon countryside. It contains anecdotes from 1918 – 1923 which are varied from that of the first airplane and motor cars in the village, through to domestic disputes between neighbours. 

Cecil Torr was a distinguished author and former barrister who lived in Lustleigh, Devon. Born in 1857, Torr was educated at Harrow and Trinity College Cambridge, and though he was called to the Bar in 1882, he inherited the family estate at Wreyland instead and embraced the role of an English squire.  It was during this time that he produced these three books.

I0050 – Newspaper Sign

A sign which was previously displayed at the library which cautioned readers of the newspapers to limit themselves to “two sandglasses of fifteen minutes each” with the newspapers so that other members could use them.

I0051 – A Bundle of Papers

This item was found in the history room of the Plymouth Proprietary Library. It contains photocopies of some primary t includes source documents which pertain to the Plymouth Proprietary Library. It contains several excepts from reports and also some newspaper archives.

I0052 – Two Greetings Cards with Plymouth Scenes

The date of these two cards is unknown, however they are most likely printed previous to 2012 due to the department where they were printed moving away from the location in which Picture One was printed.

Picture One shows a scene of a church and several Tudor buildings and figures in early Victorian costume. The word “Drake” is etched onto the wall.  This print was produced by Plymouth City Council Printing and Document Services, Windsor House.

Picture Two shows a scene from the Hoe and Citadel with the arrival of several ships and again, figures wearing early Victorian costume. This appears to be a replica of Plymouth Regatta from Devon and Cornwall Illustrated. By J. Britton and E. W. Brayley.

The very similar art style makes it likely that Picture One and Picture Two are by the same artist.

I0053 – Leaflets for Libraries

Quite likely Circa 2010 due to the other items they were bundled with when originally catalogued, these leaflets are examples from various institutions throughout the UK:

South West Image Bank

British Royal Literary and Scientific Institution

Morrab Library

Guildford Institute

Ipswitch Institute

I0054 – Bicentennial Celebrations Plymouth Proprietary Library

A bundle of letters pertaining to the invitees of the Bicentennial celebrations for the Plymouth Proprietary Library. This bundle includes a letter from Gary Streeter (MP for Plymouth). The letters are dated 2010 (with the celebrations being 2011).

I0055 – Promo Materials Plymouth Proprietary Library

A small booklet, likely a hardcopy, with a photograph of the Plymouth Proprietary Library premises at North Hill attached to the front. This leaflet gives information for prospective members. This bundle also contains various leaflets and booklets which made up promo materials for the Plymouth Proprietary Library.

I0056 – an Ordinance Survey Map of Plymouth

Reprinted in 2000, this map is a copy of the 1893 Plymouth (North) Ordinance Survey Map.

I0057 – Instructions for Plymouth Proprietary Library Reserve Librarians

A 5 page document which was produced to aid reserve librarians. Due to its nature, this document gives details on the day to day running of the library, including opening times, magazine and newspaper delivery days and so on.

I00058 – Service Contracts, Plymouth Proprietary Library

A small notebook dated 1961 which contains service contracts for various tradesmen utilised by the Plymouth Proprietary Library. It includes details of cash paid for services such as typewriter maintenance.

I0059 – Plymouth Culture

A bundle of leaflets relating to different cultural events which took place in the city of Plymouth from 2015 and 2019. Mostly they document the Plymouth History Festival.

I0060 – Photographs

A bundle of photographs possible circa 2010 which seem to show members and volunteers of the Plymouth Proprietary Library on an outing. This item is still being researched to see if the persons therein can be identified.

I0061 – Photograph Negatives

Several negatives of a photograph of the library situated on North Hill. Whilst undated, the packaging is of Timothy Whites and Taylors which closed in the 1970s when the business merged with Boots Pharmacy. Postmark possibly alludes to 1958, however this store was not thought to have been open prior to 1960.

I0062 – St Barnabas Surgery in Snow

A photograph of the current site of the Plymouth Proprietary Library, formally St Barnabas Surgery on a snowy day.

I0063 – Reminiscences of Cornwall Street

Two letters which give insightful recollections of the site at Cornwall street. The first is handwritten and unsigned, the second is typed and signed by a P.A. Boyan. A note handwritten on the bottom of the page states that the author was Pearl Ann Boyan: author of numerous papers and articles regarding the Tudor Westcountry, and who sadly passed in 1959 in Oxford.

I0064 – English Heritage Open Days

A handbook produced for members of the English Heritage which shows the dates of their open days and events. 2003.

I0065 – Serpell’s notes on Plymouth Proprietary Library history

A short single page account of the history of the Plymouth Proprietary Library – written by R.C.F.S (R. Serpell).

I0066 – Plymouth Proprietary Library moves Newspaper Article

A newspaper article written by William Telford for the Plymouth Proprietary Library which details the move to St Barnabus Terrace in 2019.

I0067 – Library Resources in South West England.

This book, written in 1965, outlines all library resources in the south west of England at the time.  This book contains alphabetical lists of all establishments offering library services, and a few details on each library. For example, the Plymouth Proprietary Library’s entry states that Miss E Wilkes was the Librarian, and that there were no other full time staff. The library was open 10 – 6, Mon to Sat. The book entry also references that the library had a partial collection of James Halliwell-Philips manuscripts and books, although many had been lost in enemy action during the second world war due to the fire.

I0068 – A History of the Plymouth Proprietary Library leaflet

This is a draft copy of an information flyer which outlines the history of the Plymouth Proprietary Library from it’s origin to it’s later movements. The author is unknown but most likely a member of the Plymouth Proprietary Library staff or volunteers.

I0069 – A History of Plymouth

Dated 2000, by Ernie Stanton, this A3 sheet gives many interesting facts and some history of the city of Plymouth.  

I0070 – Charitable Trust deed

A 1993 deed which identifies the 1993 trustees of the charity Plymouth Proprietary Library.

I0071 - A History of the Plymouth Proprietary Library

An in-depth document pertaining to the history of the Plymouth Proprietary Library. This document was written by Dr Darren Bevin (Library Manager at the Plymouth Proprietary Library 2022- ).

I0072 – Founding the Plymouth Proprietary Library

This report is also available as a copy in Box PPL1. Item I0036. This version is laminated and was obviously previously mounted on a wall – likely in the North Hill premises. It offers a list of founding members and the original financials. Dated 1810. 

I0073 – 4 greeting cards

These four cards were printed in 2015 for Past and Present and depict various scenes of Plymouth. Each one contains a snippet of historical information on the back of the card.

I0074 – Misc Plymouth Proprietary Library materials

A collection of materials and leaflets from the Plymouth Proprietary Library circa 2019.

I0075 – Newspaper Articles.

This box contains several newspaper articles which relate to the Plymouth Proprietary Library. They include articles from the Western Morning News, The Herald and The Review. They relate to trying to maintain the library and readying for the move.

I0076 – Letter to R.C.F Serpell

A letter addressed to R.C.F Serpell of Plymouth Proprietary Library regarding some building repairs and modifications. Circa 1951

I0077 – Lectures at the Plymouth Proprietary Library

A file containing details on the talks held at the Plymouth Proprietary Library 2012.

I0078 – Water Damaged Items

A list of books which were water damaged in 2009 and had to be restored.  These were mainly from the travel room.

I0079 – Plymouth Worthies

Two articles from the West of England Medical Journal (1990) which outline some “wothies” or surgeons of note residing in Plymouth throughout history. They are written by Dr Michael Reilly.

I0080 – Building Plans

3 laminated copies of the building plans for St Barnabas Terrace – the current location of the Plymouth Proprietary Library.  Gifted to the library by Stoke Damerell Church in 2019.

I0081 – Old Plymouth Today

• Three newsletters from the Old Plymouth Society. Issues 32, 37, 39. Dated 2010, 2012, and 2013 respectively. These contain short articles on various local history as well as society information. Each issue begins with a longer article on a matter of local history.

• The 2010 issue (32) contains an article on St Andrews Church.

• The 2012 issue (37) contains an article on Plymouth Boarding Schools

• The 2013 Issue (39) does not contain a longer article.