Library gifted to John Bright could go on public display

The library of former MP John Bright, which is currently hidden away in storage, could go on public display in Rochdale if funds can be sought for its relocation.

Described as one of Rochdale’s historic hidden gems, the library was a national gift to Mr Bright in 1853 in acknowledgement of his work on behalf of the Anti-Corn Law League.

Books in the collection include works by Shakespeare and Isaac Newton, as well as reference books on botany. The books were personally chosen by Mr Bright and were purchased from a subscription of £5,000.

Councillor Janet Emsley, Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing at Rochdale Council said: “John Bright’s bookcase is vastly important as it is part of Rochdale’s history and heritage.

“The people of Rochdale should be able to enjoy it and that’s why we are putting the wheels in motion to get the bookcase on display. I’m passionate about getting our art and artefacts out amongst the people and this bookcase is something that people will come into Rochdale to see.”

It is understood that the bookcase will be enclosed in a specially designed, climate controlled cabinet to protect it from any damage and would take around six months to complete at a cost of £70,000.

Tom Besford, Arts & Heritage Manager at Link4Life said: “One of the most impressive pieces in the Borough’s collection is the John Bright bookcase. It was moved into the Arts & Heritage Resource Centre from the Town Hall decades ago after it began to deteriorate and become damaged.

“Councillor Emsley and staff at Touchstones are very keen to find a way to return the bookcase to public display. In order to do this, we need to ensure that it is properly preserved and protected so that it can be enjoyed by generations for years to come.

“Councillor Emsley is looking to raise approximately £70,000 required to safely move the bookcase back into the public domain, protected in its own case. Members of the public are welcome to book in to view the bookcase.

"For more information, please call Touchstones Rochdale.”