Institute for Anglican Religious Life, St Antony’s Priory
Durham
St Antony’s Priory, 74 Claypath, Durham DH1 1QT
0191 384 3747
Society of the Sacred Mission (SSM)
Dr Scholastica Jacob, Librarian and Archivist
The library contains theology, biblical, patristic, Church history and philosophical works. There are also sections on prayer and mysticism, modern spirituality, religious life, the study of religion and comparative religions, psychology and social sciences. A specialist collection on Anglican religious communities and theology is being developed. The library is used by students and academics, retreatants and those attending courses at the priory.
Anyone may visit the library, but membership is required to borrow books.
Weekdays 10am to 4pm or by special arrangement outside these hours.
It is on the ground floor and accessible to wheelchair users.
c. 4,000
None
None
None at present
c. 500
Rare and out-of-print works on Anglican religious life
None
Provides a specialist research resource in Anglican theology, history and religious communities. Archival material is also being collected and will be available.
Digital
Study space, seminars run in partnership with the university and occasional library talks. The site also provides spiritual direction and accommodation for retreats.
None at present specifically working on the library, but other staff members are able to assist readers and visitors.
One (in the library)
One
A study centre, archives and specialist library of Anglican religious life material is being developed. It is expected this will be live in autumn 2024. Details of the progress may be found on https://religiouslife.ssm.org.uk/. In due course an additional library catalogue will be available as well as archive catalogues, reading rooms and study space.
The library is a welcoming space for readers and browsers. Set in the centre of St Antony’s Priory, it provides a theological library in a living Christian centre with a chapel and regular daily prayer. It has stunning views of Durham cathedral and castle. The new institute building will be on the same site.