Annals of the Bodleian Library, Oxford, A.D. 1598-A.D. 1867: With a Preliminary Notice of the earlier Library founded in the Fourteenth Century

"Annals of the Bodleian Library, Oxford, A.D. 1598-A.D. 1867" by William Dunn Macray is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work chronicles the history and development of the Bodleian Library, detailing its significance in the academic and cultural landscape of Oxford University from its origins in the fourteenth century through to 1867. At the start of the volume, the author provides a preface outlining the motivations behind the work, namely to present a comprehensive narrative of the library that has not been thoroughly documented since the time of Anthony à Wood. Macray discusses the challenges of compiling such a history, noting the vast array of materials available and the importance of recognizing various benefactors who contributed to the library's growth. He emphasizes the enduring cultural legacy of the library, referring to the readers who seek knowledge within its walls as "Bees of the Bodleian," and hints at the rich tales stemming from its storied past that he aims to convey throughout the subsequent chapters.