Brighton Circulating Libraries Between 1750 -1850

This research was conducted on the libraries of Brighton, East Sussex, between 1750 and 1850. It discusses why this village/town had over seventy subscription and circulating libraries, and how some of these libraries operated in this provincial town. Aim Explore the development and use of subscription and circulating libraries in Brighton. Objectives • Examine the history of the beginning of libraries and reading in an English context during the 1700 -1800’s. • Establish the political, social, and cultural framework for the development of libraries in Brighton. • Analyse the growth, management, and use of libraries in Brighton between 1750 – 1850. Methodology This study will take a micro-history approach, with a focus on Brighton and its libraries, as well as how residents and visitors lived in relation to the libraries. It will make use of surviving archival sources from Brighton libraries, such as catalogues, trade directories, advertisements, travel books, diary entries, maps, and images from the time, as well as look at local and national history from this period. This method will aid in answering the study's goals and objectives, as well as increasing our understanding of library history in England. Five case studies will be discussed. Conclusion Brighton's transformation from fishing village to thriving liberal town, with over seventy libraries established during this time, cannot be attributed to a single factor. The local nobility promoted Brighton; Dr Russell and his seawater treatments; excellent transport links; the Prince Regent, royal family, and nobility having houses built or rented in Brighton; upper and middle classes wanting to be seen and network; and embracing the liberal and enlightening ideas of the age were all factors. All these factors, and more, contributed to Brighton having so many libraries to educate as well as entertain its many visitors, through reading, lectures, gambling, and as social hubs.