We were thrilled to attend the formal reopening of the Bishop Cosin’s Library at Palace Green.

Located at Durham University, Bishop Cosin’s Library opened its doors once again on 16th February 2022 after the extensive two-year external and internal refurbishment. Originally built in 1669, Bishop Cosin’s Library is one of the earliest public libraries in the North East of England, housing significant collections and was granted Designated status in 2005; identifying the library and collections of national and international importance. The library has been run by Durham University since 1832, with further buildings being added during the Victorian period and 1966, resulting in the set of buildings now known as Palace Green Library.

The Library came with many challenges, but with the support and guidance of our in-house specialist Conservation and Heritage team, GSS and the Project Team have successfully completed the restoration of the Grade II* listed Library using sympathetic materials and methods to ensure the history of the building was preserved.

The works to Bishop Cosin’s Library are the latest in a complex series of phased renovation and restoration works for the Palace Green Library site, with the main aim of correcting the ingress of water to the Library to protect the interiors and priceless collections from damage.

The conservation and regeneration of the project has enabled the Library and its collections to be more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. In addition to this, the reopening of Bishop Cosin’s Library to the public will create a deeper and richer experience for local audiences, visitors to the World Heritage Site, and beyond.

GSS were appointed to provide Architectural, Principal Designer and Conservation services for this scheme.