16th November 2006

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Caption: Noel McGillian, Historical Reenactor, Minstrel Boys, Joe McLaughlin, University Archivist & Rare Books Curator, Frank O'Deorain, Historical Reenactor, Minstrel Boys & UU Subject Assistant Librarian, Magee.

Over £8500 was raised as the result of a special event at the University’s Magee campus this week to mark the official launch of the Adopt a Book campaign.

The fundraising evening, which was hosted by BBC personality and UU alumnus Gerry Anderson, is part of a joint project between the University and the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe to rescue books in the historic Diocesan Library. 

There are over 5,700 books in the collection, some date back to the time of the Siege of Derry and many are in a poor state of repair.

Two years ago, the unique collection was officially handed over on permanent loan to the University.  The Derry and Raphoe Diocesan Library project will restore books in the collection, while simultaneously training a team of skilled book conservators and facilitating a range of outreach activities to bring the books to a much wider audience.

Speaking at the launch of the fundraising campaign, Magee Provost Professor James Allen said the project would cost in the region of £713,000. Although there has been significant investment by the University, various generous donations and pledges from other donors including the Heritage Lottery Fund, there is still a shortfall. He said he hoped the fundraising evening would not only bring in much-needed funds but raise awareness about the project.

Thanking the University for supporting the Diocesan Library project, Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, the Right Rev. Ken Good, said he was relieved that the valuable diocesan collection now in safe hands.  “This collection, which is one of the most significant in Ireland, gives a tremendous insight to the history of the city. We are delighted to work with the university to ensure the books are preserved for future generations.   

“Since 1729 the books have been in the custody of the Church of Ireland bishop of the diocese and conditions in Synod House in London Street where the books were kept were far from ideal.”

Bishop Good admitted that he would be able to sleep easier in his bed knowing that the books are being properly cared for. He continued: “Storing the books in the right environment is just the first stage of this ambitious project. The second stage is to conserve and repair the books which in turn will involve training a team of conservators. The books will then have to be catalogued which will show the full extent of their historic significance and the final stage of the project will be to make the books accessible to the wider community, especially researchers.”  

Caroline Bendix, Library Conservator who helped conduct an initial assessment of the collection said it was much more than a theology library.  As well as specialist material on theology, both Church of Ireland, Catholic, Jew and other denominations, she said it included many books on the classics, geography, gardening, agriculture, medicine and languages.   

“The Diocesan collection dates back over three and a half centuries, during which time it has subsumed a number of personal libraries and other collections making it an irreplaceable resource.” 

As part of the fundraising evening, members of the War of the Three Kingdoms Re-enactment Society dressed in full period costume, gave guests an entertaining and informative insight to life in Derry during the time of the Siege – including a demonstration on how to load and fire a musket, the weapon of choice for many at that time. 

For further information, please contact:

Press Office, Department of Communication and Development
Tel: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk