A BUSINESS relocation firm has completed an unusual assignment - helping to move some of the rarest and most significant book collections in the country.
Harrow Green was appointed by Durham University to move the Cosin's, Maltby and Winterbottom collections, which include books dating from the 16th Century onwards, from the strongrooms in Palace Green library to their home in Bishop Cosin's 17th century library.
The books were moved back following repairs and conservation work on the building.
The 15-day project involved Harrow Green individually wrapping all the books in acid-free tissue paper to protect them from damage during the move.
About 100 metres of boxes containing the Sudan Archive have also been moved to a temporary home at the university's special collections repository within Durham Cathedral precinct while facilities are being revamped.
Dr Sheila Hingley, head of heritage collections at Durham University, said: "The move was particularly complex due to the age and historical significance of the books and manuscripts and we were very happy that we had the services of such an experienced firm who did the move with great care and efficiency."
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