A MUSEUM will mark the 140th anniversary of the laying of its foundation stone by opening a new £200,000 reading room to the public for two days.

The room, in the central dome at the top of Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, contains an extensive collection of books and periodicals, collected over many years and relating to the museum’s paintings, ceramics, textiles, decorative arts and furniture.

The library collection also contains a wide range of material, including on local and natural history, the arts, theology and literature.

There are also letters and receipts belonging to the museum’s founders, John and Josephine Bowes.

Catalogues of the books and records will be put online, after which the room will be permanently open to visitors by appointment.

The preview opening will take place from 1pm to 4pm on November 27 and from 10am to 1pm on November 28.

Access is free, but booking is essential. Call 01833-690606.