WIMBORNE MINSTER

The Chained Library

There is a south vestry adjacent to the south transept, which is used as a choir practice room.  Twenty-seven spiral steps above is a small chamber in which the world-famous 'Chained Library' is situated.  This is one of the largest examples in the country and was established in 1686 through the generosity of William Stone.  Each of more than 200 books is secured by a chain and can only be read using a mobile lectern.  The oldest book dates from 1343.