The evolution of the library received a new chapter to its history in the late nineteenth century as literacy increased with social reform. Previously libraries were a counter service beyond which the public would not be admitted and precious books were ordered and retrieved by librarians. This greater access to books required new efforts to organise collections — a new practical storage for this new age had to be designed to enable browsing.
In the 1880’s Arthur Lambert teamed up with W Lucy & Co, an iron and steel fabricator in Oxford to manufacture the ‘Perfect Adjustable Shelving’ system. Strong steel upright columns feature continuous grooves to carry shelf brackets that adjust to a desired height and then lock into any place. This free standing system was accessible from both sides and could be assembled in long rows to suit the space.
Lambert’s shelving was installed in many prominent institutions such as the Bodleian Library in Oxford, the Linnean Society and at the Patent Office on Chancery Lane.
Our shelving units are extremely versatile as they can be configured in numerous ways; bookshelves, clothes hanging, home and shop use etc. We have installed the Patent Shelving in many homes and shops, proving that Lambert’s design offers flexibility and a practical solution for contemporary living.
In a shop on Savile Row, the shelving lends itself to the style of the traditional, durable and British made, gentleman’s outfitters.
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