Stocking a Library at the Turn of the Eleventh Century: the Case of Herbert Losinga, Bishop of Norwich

Abstract

This article asks how Bishop Herbert Losinga († 1119) obtained books and other material for the library of his new cathedral at Norwich. The bulk of the evidence comes from Herbert's correspondence, which survives in a letter-collection put together under his supervision. The essay interprets the hints available in his letters alongside other relevant bibliographical evidence. Extant manuscripts certainly or possibly at Norwich during Herbert's incumbency are also surveyed. It is suggested that Herbert regarded the creation of the library as one of his foremost achievements in office, and it is one for which he deserves to be remembered.