The most extensive collection of women’s history in the UK is under threat
Katie Allenwrites;
Author, comedian and broadcaster Sandi Toksvig has spoken out about the threatened Women’s Library in east London, which is facing severe cuts.
The collection, which is based in a special building within London Metropolitan University, includes books and periodicals dating back to the 16th century, including first editions of novels by Mary Wollstonecraft, Virginia Woolf and the Bronte sisters.
Toksvig, who has given talks at the library, said: “The Women’s Library is one of the most inspiring places in Britain. The collection is irreplaceable and having access to it should be a right for all.”
The museum also hosts hundreds of other printed items, letters, textiles and other objects pertaining to women’s history, including the papers of suffragette Emily Wilding Davison, who was famous for stepping in front of the King’s horse at the Epsom Derby, dying later from her injuries.
The university’s board of governors said the library will have to cut its opening hours to one day a week instead of five if a new home is not found for the archive.
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