The Historical Development of the Library of St. Mary's College, Blairs, Aberdeen, 1829-1986

Catholic libraries are an under-researched area in library history. That of St Mary's College, Blairs, the Scottish national junior seminary from 1829 to 1986, is noted for its historical importance and holdings, but how the library operated within the seminary is less known. The library had an important place in seminary life from the beginning, with dedicated accommodation within the college, ongoing purchases, and the central place of reading in the daily routine. However, staffing was inconsistent and few administrative records survive for the library, giving the impression that it was managed informally. The distinction was made between the historical college library and the students' working library. The former grew to be a significant collection, reflecting the education and resilience of Scottish Catholics at home and abroad following the Reformation, but it had little use for junior seminarians. The student library had a direct role in supporting the boys' education, showing wider-ranging, more modern subjects as the twentieth century progressed.