Senior School Tour: the Library
History of our library
For over 300 years, what is now the School Library building has been an integral part of Sedbergh. Built in 1716 as the School’s principal classroom, it remains one of the most loved spaces on campus — a place where generations of pupils have studied, debated, and found inspiration.
In 1883, after Main School was built, the ground floor became the chapel and the upstairs was opened as a library. By 1900, the top floor had transformed into a museum, filled with treasures donated by alumni and friends — including Roman coins and even an Egyptian mummy.
The 20th century brought electricity, a major refurbishment in 1958, and a new name: The Winston Churchill Library. Brendan Bracken, then Chairman of Governors and a close ally of Churchill, oversaw every detail of the redesign, commissioning a Churchill bust by Oscar Nemon and inscribing Remember Winston Churchill above the door.
Today, the top floor — the Scholars’ Room — provides 11 of our most academic Year 13 pupils with private study carrels alongside the School’s Special Collections. Downstairs, the library remains one of the pupils’ favourite places: alive with classes, debates, visiting speakers, and the School’s annual Academic Challenge.
Academic Societies
The library is a favourite location for our Academic Societies to meet. At Sedbergh, academic societies are an important part of how we help pupils grow beyond the classroom. They allow young people to explore subjects in greater depth, practise presenting and debating ideas, and develop skills such as leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking — qualities that universities and employers value highly. Just as importantly, societies give pupils a sense of belonging and ownership, connecting them with like-minded peers and inspiring mentors. They ensure Sedbergh pupils are not only well taught, but also encouraged to be curious, confident, and prepared for the future.