Library Renovation Recognised with Oxford Preservation Trust Award

Trinity’s War Memorial Library has been recognised for its renovation and refurbishment in the Oxford Preservation Trust (OPT) Awards for 2023.

The OPT Awards wards seek to acknowledge the contribution that projects, large and small, can make to Oxford’s character and communities. Trinity College’s Grade II listed War Memorial Library was nominated in the Building Conservation category and received a certificate of recognition. The project over the summer of 2022 entailed removing the entire collection of 48,500 library books. It resulted in a full redecoration, the addition of new lighting and an upgraded power supply, further enhancement to the building’s accessibility, the restoration of all the building’s desks, sound-insulated and double-glazed windows and the revival of some of its original features.

Trinity’s Estates Bursar, Christopher Ferguson, said of the award: ‘We are delighted that the renovation of the War Memorial Library has been recognised with an award from the Oxford Preservation Trust. The beautiful library is an important part of the College’s heritage. It was overdue for some tender loving care and it seems timely that this was achieved before its centenary.

'Many thanks and congratulations are due to the team who completed the work – in particular to our architect Andrew Dawson from Original Field, our builders Benfield & Loxley, and to our own wonderful Clerk of Works Andy Hooper, who oversaw the project.’

The Oxford Preservation Trust was founded in 1927 to preserve the city of Oxford. The Trust seeks to enhance Oxford by encouraging thoughtful development and new design, while protecting historic buildings and green open spaces.