After major refurbishments and a 12 week project to modernise security arrangements for the Library’s priceless collections, Beard’s Property Services Division is now bringing 21st century communications capabilities to this working library to make future exhibitions more interactive and dynamic.

Additionally, to improve working conditions in this historic building, the Property Services team has installed Air Curtain heating. The Beard team had to lift and excavate beneath the entire stone floor to accommodate security and CCTV wiring installations, then replace it invisibly so there was no perceptible difference. 

The team also had to create new access routes into two basement areas and install new glass entrance doors with two bespoke oak reception desks as well as works to improve access for readers and visitors.  The entrance to the Bodleian, known as the Proscholium, was originally the ante-room to the Divinity School and dates back to 1610. The work has involved very careful refurbishment in keeping with the building’s Grade 1 listed status.

Commenting for the Bodleian Library, Andrew MacDuff, Support Services Manager, said:  “With over 200,000 visitors a year, the remodelling of the historic entrance brings real improvements to how we manage the flow of readers and visitors and is more sympathetic to the wonderful architecture of the building than the previous layout.  After using Beard for other works on similar buildings, they were the natural choice for this sensitive restoration.  Despite challenging timeframes Beard has successfully coordinated all aspects of the project, with a sensitive high quality and expert approach.”
 
Beard’s Property Services Division, which carries out a wide range of small works, has a long track record working with the University and its many properties, new and old. Construction director, John Youle said, “It is particularly rewarding for the team to be working on such historic and prestigious buildings as The Bodleian. We have wide experience of working with sensitive and occupied sites often on short time frames and with difficult city centre access, and with balancing the needs of building users with project goals.”