ONE of the Bodleian Libraries’ oldest rooms will be converted for the sixth time in its history.

The former school of natural philosophy in the Old Schools Quadrangle will be transformed into a new ‘break out’ room for readers.

Located near Radcliffe Square the room was originally built as additional teaching space at the beginning of the 17th century.

By the 19th century - and after professors had moved elsewhere and the University acquired the Radcliffe Camera - the philosophy building had already been converted several times and was being used as an examinations rooms.

It was then converted into an entrance hall for the old library by Sir Thomas Worthington, and later transformed into an exhibition room.

In 1993 it was refurbished in a modern fashion with an inviligator’s desk for exams.

Oxford University has now lodged plans to upgrade the room once more with sofas, chairs, new doors and vending machines.