The Enchanting Tale of The Mouse Of The Bodleian Library

Once upon a time, in the heart of Oxford, there existed a mystical library known as the Bodleian Library. Amongst its vast collection of books, manuscripts, and ancient texts, a tiny resident held an important place - The Mouse of the Bodleian Library.

While most visitors and scholars bustled about, unaware of the magical mouse, it quietly roamed the shelves, scurrying along the corridors, and experiencing the treasures of knowledge within those hallowed walls.

Affectionately Named Aston

The mouse, a dainty creature with a nose that twitched and eyes that gleamed, was affectionately named Aston. Scholars believed Aston to be an enchanted being, the embodiment of the library's wisdom and longevity. Aston was said to possess an understanding of books and manuscripts that surpassed human comprehension.

The Mouse of the Bodleian Library

by Teresa E. Harris (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	29960 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	35 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

For centuries, Aston observed the comings and goings of scholars, watching as they sought answers to their questions and immersed themselves in the wonders of literature. Aston sensed the passion and curiosity that emanated from these individuals, and it fueled its own thirst for knowledge.

Aston's Adventures in Literature

One moonlit night, Aston embarked on an extraordinary adventure. It stumbled upon a small, hidden entrance within the library's walls, unknown to all but itself. Aston, driven by an insatiable curiosity, entered the secret passage and discovered a world concealed within the books housed in the library.

In this clandestine corner of the library, Aston encountered characters who leapt out from the pages, joining the mouse in their quest for new experiences. Aston explored the realms of fiction, traveling alongside Alice in Wonderland, conducting scientific experiments with Frankenstein and his monster, and even sharing a meal with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.

The mouse grew knowledgeable in philosophy, literature, history, and countless other subjects. Aston became a true connoisseur of the written word, immersing itself in languages old and new, learning ancient scripts, and deciphering cryptic codes.

A Secret Protector of Knowledge

Aston's adventures weren't limited to the pages of books. It recognized its responsibility to safeguard knowledge and protect the library's treasures. Aston would keep a watchful eye on visitors, ensuring they treated the books with reverence and care.

There were times when Aston had to intervene discreetly when a clumsy scholar was about to accidentally spill ink onto a treasured manuscript, or when an inquisitive child was tempted to fold the corners of a precious tome. Aston's alert presence was the library's hidden shield, guarding against any harm that might befall its magnificent collection.

The Legacy of Aston

As time passed, Aston became an integral part of the Bodleian Library's history and folklore. Scholars would leave treats and offerings for it, recognizing its profound connection to the vast repository of knowledge within the library's walls.

Despite its small stature, Aston's impact on the academic community was enormous. It inspired countless generations of students to pursue their intellectual pursuits, sparking a hunger for learning and exploration.

The Tale Lives On

Though Aston is no longer the resident mouse of the Bodleian Library, its legacy lives on. Even today, visitors and scholars at the library occasionally catch a glimpse of a tiny figure scurrying along the bookshelves, a reminder of Aston's enduring presence.

The Mouse of the Bodleian Library, with its insatiable thirst for knowledge and its dedication to preserving wisdom, forever remains a symbol of the profound love for literature that permeates the Bodleian Library. Many continue to believe that as long as Aston's spirit roams the halls, the library will forever be a sanctuary of enlightenment and inspiration.

The Mouse of the Bodleian Library

by Teresa E. Harris (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	29960 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	35 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

About 2 years ago on one of my trips to the University of Oxford, I spent some time at Bodleian Libraries and discovered its amazing history which I thought would make a fascinating children's book. 'The Mouse of Bodleian Library' tells the story of a curious mouse's visit to Oxford's oldest library in the briefcase of its famous founder Sir Thomas Bodley in the early 17th century. The book is a gift to Bodleian Libraries and hopefully will entertain its young visitors for many years by telling them the story of the library's early days.