A UNIQUE library in Maldon's town centre has been saved after restoration work. 

Thomas Plume’s Library in Maldon is one of the oldest public libraries in England.

The grade I listed building contains more than 8,000 volumes dating back to the 16th century.

The library was built on the site of the former church of St Peter, of which only the 15th-century west tower remains.

The original church nave collapsed in around 1665 and the library was built by 1699.

The library was added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 2020.

Since then, it has undergone restoration work after it was said that it was at risk of its ceiling collapsing and possible structural movement and cracking.

A spokesman for Historic England said: “By 1699 Dr Thomas Plume had built a two-storey brick and timber library building to house his collection of rare and important 16th and 17th-century texts.

“In contrast to the church tower, Plume’s new building was domestic in character, built of red brick with stone dressings, coved cornices and a slate roof.

“On the first floor of the library, original 17th century fittings can be seen including beautiful wooden panelling.”

Repairs have now been completed to restore the building, gifted to the town by Dr Thomas Plume following his death in 1704.

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A spokesman for Historic England said: “Urgent repair work has been completed to the room that contains Plume’s collection, including the replacement of the ceiling and works to the library floor, external masonry and windows.

“The restoration work has protected Plume’s rare books, manuscripts and paintings and has ensured future public access to this unique collection in its original setting.”

Dr Helen Kemp, Plume Librarian at Thomas Plume’s Library, said: “Maldon Town Council and the trustees of Thomas Plume’s Library are grateful for Historic England’s advice and support, which has helped to preserve the Plume Building for future generations to enjoy.

“There is a Friends of Thomas Plume’s Library for people who’d like to get more involved. Information can be found at https://www.thomasplumeslibrary.co.uk/fotpl/.”