From Medieval Books to a New Library: Oxford’s past uncovered

11 September 2025

‘What a treat! Well done, all.’ Other comments on our Archaeology Open Day included, ‘Just wonderful!’ ‘Fascinating, thank you,’ and (from a younger visitor), ‘Fun and cool.’

On Saturday 6 September 2025, Hertford College welcomed more than 650 visitors through its gates, offering the public a unique chance to step behind the hoardings and see exhibits discovered during excavations for the college’s new library.

Organised in partnership with Oxford Archaeology and Beard, the event showcased finds uncovered during excavations in Hertford’s Old Quad, including book clasps, lamps, styli and, most notably, a perfectly preserved medieval rock-crystal reading stone. Visitors toured the excavation, talked to the archaeologists and viewed a selection of the items found to date. They were also able to enjoy a display of historical books from the College Library and look around the Chapel and the Hall.

The Open Day proved to be a huge success, attracting families, students, alumni and Oxford residents alike. Taking into account a special preview for college members and staff on Friday, as well as a tour for donors, more than 700 people visited the site over the course of the weekend.

Feedback from visitors was overwhelmingly positive, praising both the archaeological discoveries and the insight into Hertford’s ongoing library project. Opportunities to excavate at this scale within an Oxford college quadrangle are extremely rare, making this Open Day a special opportunity to see the city’s medieval past and its educational future side by side. The event also fulfilled a key planning condition to provide public access to the archaeology before building work continues.

Pat Roche, Hertford’s Interim Principal, reflected on the occasion:

‘Hertford is in the midst of its largest transformation in a century. This Open Day was a whole-team effort and a wonderful opportunity to share exciting discoveries, celebrate our history, and welcome people to our college. We’re deeply grateful to all those who helped make the day possible – Oxford Archaeology, Beard, and Hertford staff – for the planning, preparation and delivery which made the event so successful.’

About Hertford’s new library

Scheduled to open during the 2026–27 academic year, this ambitious redevelopment will unite modern and historic collections under one roof, with step-free access, flexible study areas, and a dedicated special collections reading room. The design restores heritage buildings, reduces energy consumption and allows access to the mobility impaired.