100,000 reasons for Minster Library milestone celebration

York Minster Library, which contains documents dating from the year 1000, has become one of the city's most popular tourist attractions after moving to its current home at Dean's Park, in the cathedral grounds, in 1810.

Now to mark the 200-year milestone, Dean's Park is being renamed the Old Palace, in homage to the part of it which used to be the chapel of the Archbishop's palace in the 13th century.

The Dean of York, the Very Rev Keith Jones, said: "The Minster Library and the archives of the minster are a glorious treasury of national importance.

"There are so many subjects represented here, and we look forward to welcoming still more users of the fascinating things we have in our care."

The original Minster Library was reduced to rubble by the Vikings when they ransacked the city in 866 and was rebuilt at the minster's south entrance in the 15th century.

Exhibitions and events will take place at the Old Palace to mark the 200th anniversary celebrations throughout the year. Visit www.yorkminster.org for more information.