Why Were Books Chained in the Middle Ages?
Chaining books was a practice that became widespread in the Middle Ages, especially from the 15th century onward. The primary reason for this practice was the value and rarity of books, as well as the high risk of theft or loss. Here are the main reasons behind chained books (Latin: libri catenati):
- The Extreme Value of Books
In the Middle Ages, books were written by hand (manuscripts) and their production was very laborious. Manuscripts were written with ink on parchment or leather, and sometimes decorated with gold leaf and ornamentation.
Production of a book could take months, even years, so its economic value was very high.
- Security Measures in Libraries
Monastery libraries and university libraries, in particular, used chaining to prevent unauthorized removal of books.
Books were fastened to shelves or reading tables with iron chains. The chain restricted the book’s movement but allowed it to be read.
- Public Access to Books, but Controlled Access
Chained books were generally located in “public libraries” or university collections. For example, Hereford Cathedral Library in England still displays chained books.
This system prevented books from being taken out of the library but allowed those who wished to read them inside.
- Religious and Intellectual Control
Churches and academic institutions, particularly those with religious content or those deemed “dangerous,” did not want the uncontrolled dissemination of texts. Chaining prevented unauthorized access to books.
- The Primitive Catalog System
There was no sophisticated borrowing system like that found in modern libraries. Chaining ensured that books remained in their place and the catalog was not disrupted.
Extant Chained Libraries
Hereford Cathedral Library (England) – The world’s largest collection of chained books.
Merton College Library (Oxford) – Chained books from the Middle Ages.
Zutphen Library (Netherlands) – A 16th-century example.
Chained books were an interesting solution for preserving information and providing controlled access during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. With the spread of the printing press and the proliferation of books, this practice gradually disappeared. Today, these books are preserved as historical artifacts. 📜🔗