THE reading room at the top of the Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, has revealed surprise finds as well as a stunning view of Teesdale since it opened just over a year ago.

The space in the central dome, converted and equipped at a cost of £200,000, has been steadily attracting scholars carrying out academic research as well as queries of a more personal nature.

Next weekend sees two more public open days, following the success of the first, when visitors will be welcome to browse among the books on the open shelves and talk to staff and volunteers.

More unusual requests in recent months include one from a woman trying to establish whether her great great grandfather had fallen off the roof during construction of the building.

A search through the records drew a blank.

By contrast, a significant find was the discovery of the account book for Dotheboys Hall, the school, now a private house, at Bowes, which Charles Dickens exposed in his novel Nicholas Nickleby.

The book turned up during research for an exhibition about Dickens which the museum is planning next year to mark his bicentenary.

Curator Howard Coutts said there had also been an inquiry from the present owners of the Chateau du Barry, at Louveciennes, near Paris.

Originally bought by Louis XV for his mistress, Madame du Barry, it was purchased by the museum founder, John Bowes, in the name of Mlle Delorme, Josphine’s stage name, and presented to her.

The owners were thrilled to find and see the original bills for the furnishing of the chateau in 1855, said Mr Coutts.

“They have the panelling, we have the moveable furniture, and it matches!”

The extensive collection of books and periodicals in the reading room has been accumulated over many years.

Much of it relates to the paintings, ceramics, textiles, decorative arts and furniture displayed in the galleries.

The library collection ranges from local and natural history to the arts, theology and literature, including finely decorated book bindings, and there is a good deal of personal history relating to John and Josphine Bowes, reflecting their lives and interests.

Opening hours for Saturday and Sunday, October 22 and 23, are 10.30am to 3pm; booking is essential as space is limited.

A sample of books and archives will be on show, but research will not be permitted.

The room is accessible by lift and access is free. Call 01833-690606, ext 209, or email libraryandarchives @thebowesmuseum.org.uk to book.

Normal admission applies for the rest of the museum.