The Library has a complete set of Command papers and House of Commons papers from 1715 to date. HMSO and other printed indexes are the chief finding tool. Originally the gift of Sir Allen Lane in 1960 to mark his completion of 25 years as chairman of Penguin Books Ltd, it was supplemented by him in 1965 and 1966, and rounded off in 1969. In 1975 Penguin Books Ltd undertook to supply a copy of each new or reprinted title, and this arrangement continues. With few exceptions, each volume published before 1970 is signed by its author, editor or translator, and there are also many signed letters, photographs and other memorabilia.
Most volumes are first editions, many of the early ones complete with wrappers.
Publisher's printed catalogue of 1970, updated by publisher's microfiche. A large collection bequeathed to the University by Dr Joseph Wiglesworth, 1853-1919 and since augmented by purchase. Theological literature and controversy is especially well represented, complementing the theological aspects of many of the more specialised collections. The classics, literature and history, particularly agricultural history and the castle also feature strongly. There is a useful cartographical section containing early maps and atlases.