Hidden Treasures of KEHS
Mrs Moloney delivered a very interesting assembly to the girls on Friday 16th January about the hidden treasures in KEHS’ school library. Mrs Moloney was able to give a very detailed history of the school library. Below you can see some of the images she used to illustrate her talk. She has also made a display of some of the antique books in the Senior Library and all of our girls were encouraged to take a closer look.
 |
 |
 |
Mrs Moloney told the girls:
“The School library has a stock room rarely revealed to the general school population but in this stockroom we are privileged to hold some very old books.
In September 1883 the headmistress, Miss Creak, bought 38 books and began the school library. More books were bought or donated in the following years and the library grew from strength to strength.
Many of the original books are now old and not in the best condition. Unfortunately there was some flood damage in the 1970’s. However, most of the old books were rebound and we can have an inkling of their former splendour. Their beautiful illustrations remain to surprise and delight us.
Some books are now rare and therefore of considerable monetary value. But, in reality, all the books can be said to have a value: many as landmarks in the history of their subject, perhaps because they are by important authors or include the work of the finest illustrators. They are interesting too as reference books on the changing face of fashion in dress, furnishings and interior design. They demonstrate the various movements in art from Victorian through Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Art Deco to the 1930’s and 1940’s. Moral attitudes and educational changes can be glimpsed too. The development of book production from the 1800’s is well illustrated in our collection, showing the many advances in printing, papermaking, illustrating and binding processes.”
Back