About

Thomas Plume’s Library was founded in 1704 under the terms of the will of Dr Thomas Plume who had been born in Maldon in 1630. He bequeathed his collection of c.8,100 books and pamphlets, to be kept in the building which he had constructed from the ruins of the old St Peter’s Church. The building still houses his books, as well as his small collection of paintings. Although they may no longer be borrowed, books from the Library may be consulted by appointment during normal opening hours, (identification required) and the catalogue may be consulted online.

Books which came to the Library after Plume's initial bequest include over 2,000 items comprising of previous librarians' books and purchases, items from Beeleigh Abbey Library, and a collection of rare books relating to Samuel Richardson's Pamela (thought to be the first novel). 

ACCESS RESTRICTED - VIA STEEP AND NARROW SPIRAL STAIRCASE. Maximum capacity of 10 people at a time.
Groups must be booked in advance. Please note also that this is a working library and a research facility and access may therefore need to be restricted from time to time according to the needs of scholars already at work.