The Hudson Memorial Library

The Hudson Library is a modern theological lending library able to meet the needs of the general reader, teachers and students (from secondary school level to higher or further education), clergy undertaking continuing ministerial education, and people training for ordination or lay ministry.

The library’s resources cover the full range of theological disciplines (biblical studies, ethics, doctrine, philosophy, practical theology, church history, and comparative religion). There are also sections covering sociology, psychology and counselling, art, architecture, music, poetry and literature.

The Beardsmore Collection

The Hudson Library also houses the Beardsmore Collection of books and other items relating to the history of Hertfordshire. Access to the collection is by appointment only: please telephone the Assistant Librarian before visiting the library.

Membership

The library is open to the general public, but only subscribing members may borrow books. Membership is open to all on payment of an annual subscription of £10 (£5 for students). Members may borrow up to four books for up to two months. Books may be renewed by telephone. Hudson books are available through St Etheldreda’s Library at St Andrew’s Church in Bedford, and a ‘books by post’ service is also offered at the discretion of the Assistant Librarian. Please contact us for further information.

Opening Times

Sunday 10.30 am to 11.30 am

Monday to Friday 10.00 am to 2.30 pm

Saturday 10.00 am to 1.00 pm

History Of Library

The library of St Albans Abbey was one of the finest in Europe, but the collection was broken up at the dissolution of the monastery in 1539. When the Abbey became a cathedral church in 1877 a modest library was re-founded, and this was extended and endowed by a bequest from Canon Cyril Hudson in 1960. The library was further extended by books from the former theological college, Bishops’ College, Cheshunt. In 1982 the library moved to its present premises when the Chapter House was opened.

The library has further plans for development to provide a modern and accessible resource for people exploring the Christian faith in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.

A partnership between the Cathedral and the Diocese of St Albans

The Hudson Library is a registered charity no 280566. The trustees of the charity are appointed by the Diocese of St Albans and the Dean and Chapter of the Cathedral. The work of the library is maintained by income from the Hudson bequest, grants from the cathedral and diocese, membership subscriptions and donations. The Hudson Library is also grateful for support from the St Albans and Oxford Ministry Course.

Where to find us

The Hudson Library is on the first floor of the Chapter House at St Albans Cathedral. There is no parking available at the Cathedral (other than for disabled badge holders), but ample public parking is available within five minutes’ walk. The Cathedral is easy to reach by public transport via all buses serving central St Albans. St Albans City and Abbey railway stations are also within walking distance.

For further information ring the Assistant Librarian, Helen Fordham,

on +44(0)1727 830576

or email library@stalbanscathedral.org.uk