Description:A white-robed Dominican Friar seated at study in the Library at Hawkesyard. The Library was built 1901-1902 and opened on December 12th 1904 by by Bishop Castelli. Prior to the availability of a separate lecture room the space had to also accommodate meetings. This made shelving at right angles with alcoves, desirable for private study, impractical so a gallery, supported by cast-iron columns and accessed by a spiral staircase, was provided to increase book storage space. Small step-ladders running on castors were incorporated to access the upper shelving. By 1938 the shelving was full and additional racks was added down the middle of the floor. It was well lit by a natural light from the roof and overhead lighting.
The library was described in the auction prospectus of 1894 as being: `... 23'6" (7.16m) by 31' (9.4m) with two windows on the south and one on the west fronts, with sliding casement opening to the terrace; side mantel, panelled ceiling and oak doors and casements. The room is fitted with tall oak bookcases, the upper portions having glazed doors protected by brass wire trellis.".
Photographer: Alfred McCann, photographer of High Street, Uttoxeter.