| Summary: | The libraries formed by the group of individuals known as antiquaries during the period 1580 to 1640 were of crucial importance for the long-term development of the great research collections of the modern period. Despite the multitude of substantial private collections of antiquaries, a number of Renaissance individuals recognised the need for a 'national' collection. The library of Sir Robert Cotton is of pivotal importance in the history of libraries. Cotton is one of the more difficult antiquaries of the period 1580 to 1640. Born in 1571 into gentry stock, he would, had he been of a different temperament, perhaps have been satisfied with a life managing his inherited estates. Cotton's various collecting methods had brought his collection to a considerable size, large enough for a catalogue to be a necessary tool in managing it. The history of the establishment of the Bodleian Library is very well known, both from contemporary sources and from more recent studies.
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