Nineteenth-century working men’s reading rooms

Craig, Iona

Thesis

Nineteenth-century working men’s reading rooms

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Creator

Craig, Iona

Rights statement

Strathclyde Thesis Copyright

Awarding institution

University of Strathclyde

Date of award

2025

Thesis identifier

T17239

Person Identifier (Local)

201986682

Qualification Level

Doctoral (Postgraduate)

Qualification Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department, School or Faculty

Abstract

This thesis explores the establishment, operation, and cultural significance of nineteenth-century working men’s reading rooms in Britain, focusing on the North of England and Scotland. These reading rooms, which proliferated throughout towns and villages during the Victorian era, served as pivotal spaces for intellectual engagement, self-education and social interaction among the working class. By examining a variety of sources, including newspapers, periodicals, and archival records, this study reconstructs the physical and social environments of these reading rooms. The research highlights how these spaces, often initiated by local elites or industrial employers, were managed and utilised by their patrons. The thesis delves into the committees that governed these rooms, illustrating the power dynamics and the often paternalistic control exerted by the middle and upper classes. Key chapters analyse the funding mechanisms, literature provided, and the diverse recreational and educational activities available in these rooms. Case studies of specific reading rooms reveal the varied influences of local industries, demographics, and community interests. Additionally, the thesis examines the role of women, who, though less frequently members, contributed significantly to the support and operation of these reading rooms. This work contributes to the broader understanding of working-class culture, the history of reading, and the development of public leisure and educational institutions in the nineteenth century. It underscores the importance of these reading rooms in fostering a culture of reading and self-improvement among working men, while also highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by these institutions in balancing control and accessibility.

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