In 2025, two students studying for their Masters in History at Lancaster University, helped with cataloguing books in the Cathedral Library. They created exhibitions inspired by the Cathedral’s Library and these were on show to the general public through 2025.
Student Emily Mobley named her exhibition Doodling in Carlisle Cathedral Library.
Among the Cathedral Library’s collection of books lies an intriguing study of the history of marginalia and palaeography. By looking beyond the printed text, at the written notes and dates within, we can construct a more nuanced image of the history of the book’s owners, their purposes for using the readings, and the significance of the owners themselves. It offers a fascinating exploration of signatories and the handwriting employed, as well as a collection of doodles of animals. Particular examples in this collection consist of a written alphabet and students’ doodles and notes passed on with the books owners.
Emily noted “During my placement, I have been able to explore an extensive collection of books from the 1400-1700. I’ve been cataloguing shelves from the collection and exploring the notes within and have been inspired to create this display showcasing the doodles I have discovered within. During my time here have learnt about marginalia, handwriting and signatories, as well as improved my skills in palaeography. A particularly exciting highlight for me was discovering 15th-century manicules in a Tudor-era printed book.”
You can watch a video of Emily’s online exhibition here.
