Research Resources in York
Libraries
There are good library resources in York, which include the university library, the library at King's Manor, and various electronic resources.
In addition, York Minster Library comprises the largest cathedral library in the country, and the British Library at Boston Spa, nearby, provides local access to over 7 million publications.
Manuscripts & archives
The unusually rich and varied manuscript archives in York include:
- Borthwick Institute for Historical Research: for resources including the records of the archbishops of York (and so the whole northern province of England).
- York Minster Archive: for manuscript collections including illuminated bibles, liturgies, saints' lives and theology, in addition to the records of the dean and chapter.
- York City Archive: for medieval urban records, including the mystery plays.
Material resources
The ancient Roman and medieval city of York provides a range of material resources. The extensive medieval buildings include the Minster, parish churches, urban houses and civic halls, the castle and defensive walls and gates.
York continues to be home to large-scale archaeological exploration of the town's ecclesiastical, military and urban heritage.
The Minster and many churches house medieval sculpture and extensive collections of stained glass, the latter preserved through the work of the York Glaziers Trust.
In addition, the nearby Yorkshire countryside includes extensive remains of castles, churches, and monasteries, including the magnificent Cistercian sites such as Fountains and Rievaulx.
