York Minster

The Old Palace

The Old Palace: York Minster's Library, Archives, Collections and Conservation online

This summer, York Minster’s Library and Archives will celebrate 200 years of being housed in its current building in Dean’s Park.

The building, which is home not only to York Minster’s library and archives, also houses the collections department and the conservation studio, and so will now be known as The Old Palace, in homage to the part of the building which used to be the chapel of the Archbishop’s palace, built in the 13th Century. In 1810 the Archbishop’s palace in Dean’s Park was refurbished and shortly thereafter the Minster’s collection was moved there.

The building was first extended in the 1960s and 70s, to house its expanding collections, but more importantly a new alliance was formed between York Minster Library and the newly founded University of York, who were keen to utilise the academic and educational resources there.

Today, that alliance is stronger than ever and in this new period of growth an exciting new partnership with the University of York is being developed and should be in place by the 200th anniversary celebrations in summer. The Dean and Chapter are delighted that this relationship continues to grow and strengthen. The Dean of York, the Very Reverend Keith Jones, said, ‘The Minster Library and the Archives of the Minster, housed in the Old Palace in Dean’s Park, are a glorious treasury of national importance.  Our partnership with the University of York reflects the use made by students in the many subjects represented here, and we look forward to welcoming still more users of the fascinating things we have in our care.’

The Old Palace will continue to welcome those wishing to borrow books and make use of the extensive collections, now with more than 100, 000 books, on topics ranging from Theology, Art, History and Religious texts to the unique older collections housed in the Upper Hall, formerly the Archbishop’s Chapel.

The Old Palace will also be open to visitors wishing to come and have a look around the building, although those wishing to view the Upper Hall will have to make an appointment. Due to the retirement of long-serving Librarian John Powell, opening times have changed until a new librarian is appointed. Please see 'Visiting The Old Palace' for further information. 

Exhibitions and events will continue to take place at The Old Palace with plans for the 200th Anniversary celebrations underway. Please check thewebsite regularly for further information.