Mamtimyn Sunuodula

Librarian Dr Mamtimyn Sunuodula gives a masterclass on the pivotal role played by libraries in the history of intellectual and cultural exchanges between Britain and China and demonstrates the significant influence that librarians had in shaping the knowledge and academic study of China in Britain and vice versa.

The first Chinese book in the Bodleian Library was bought by its founder in 1604 and was arguably the earliest acquisition of a Chinese book by a western library. The library continued acquiring Chinese books throughout the 17th century, although there is no evidence anyone understood Chinese script until the arrival of Shen Fuzong in 1687, the first Chinese visitor to Oxford and England. His visit and the relations he built began a process that saw libraries with Chinese collections become a hub and breathing ground for Chinese intellectuals and nationalist modernisers.

Sunuodola is head of the East Asia section at the Bodleian Library.

Presented by Bodleian Libraries.