THE HISTORY OF ST. THEOPHAN THE RECLUSE’S LIBRARY

2015 is the year of the 200th anniversary since the date of birth of St. Theophan the Recluse, also known as “Theophan Zatvornik” (1815–1894), one of the most prominent theologians and theological writers of the 19th century. In Vyshinska Hermitage of Dormition the Saint spent the last 28 years of his life, 22 of which in complete recluse. This time was the most prolific for him as a theologian and a theological writer. During all his life St. Theophan was collecting books. He left his first library to Olonets Theological Seminary where he served as a rector since 15th September, 1855 till 21st May, 1856, but the most complete book collection which the bishop had been building up till the last days of his life was in his cells in Vyshinska Hermitage. After his death St. Theophan's library was inventoried by Moscow Theological Seminary librarian N. A. Kolosov. The total number of books was 1400 titles in 3400 volumes apart from journals and small booklets.According to N. A. Kolosov the characteristic feature of the library was its versatility. Later St. Theophan's library was bought by Moscow merchants Alexander, Michael, Sergey and Konstantin Losevs and then donated to a reading room at Moscow church of St. Nicolas the Miracle-Worker in Tolmachi. After the revolution the books became a part of the Rumyantsev Museum (currently The Russian State Library) holdings and were sorted into different departments.