Japanese Studies: Rare and Distinctive Collections

The Bodleian houses one of the oldest institutional collections of Japanese rare books and manuscripts in Europe, with a history dating back to the seventeenth century. University members and external readers can consult special collections at the Weston Library, but they require a full and unrestricted Bodleian Reader card with Group A access. 

For information about Japanese Special Collections, contact the curator by email.

A small number of books published in the first half of the 20th century can be accessed at the Bodleian Japanese Library with permission of the librarian. These titles are marked on SOLO as "confined". Readers who wish to consult these titles are encouraged to contact the Library by email beforehand.

Library staff will provide a dedicated reading space, bookrests, and snakes. Consumption of food and beverages is not permitted while consulting confined items.