Candlekeep Library

Candlekeep Library, located in Buckbridge, is a vast and impressive library managed by the followers of Oghma and Deneir. Entry is free, but visitors must bring a gift of a book that is not already in the library's extensive collection. With a plethora of tomes, scrolls, and other written works, Candlekeep Library is a haven for scholars and researchers seeking knowledge and information. The librarians are highly knowledgeable and are always eager to assist visitors with their research.

Purpose / Function

Candlekeep Library is a vast repository of knowledge and wisdom, housing a collection of rare books, manuscripts, and other historical documents from across the realms. Its purpose is to preserve and protect this wealth of knowledge and make it accessible to scholars and seekers of knowledge from all walks of life. The library serves as a center of learning and research, with a mission to advance the understanding of the world and its history. As one of the most prestigious and respected libraries in the realms, Candlekeep is a hub of academic activity, with scholars and students from far and wide coming to study and learn from its vast collection.

Alterations

During the last great War of the Sky, Candlekeep Library was attacked and suffered extensive damage. However, since then, significant efforts have been made to restore and rebuild the library to its former glory. The most notable alterations include the reconstruction of several damaged wings and the installation of new security measures to protect the library's precious contents. The restoration process also included the implementation of climate control and preservation systems to ensure the long-term survival of the library's vast collection. Additionally, a new section was added to the library dedicated to the study of the Sky Wars, containing rare documents and artifacts related to that tumultuous period in history. Overall, these alterations have not only restored the library's physical structure but have also strengthened its ability to fulfill its mission of preserving and sharing knowledge.

Architecture

Candlekeep Library is a magnificent structure of grand architecture, towering walls, and sturdy towers. The library's design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with its stonework, arches, and intricate carvings reflecting a blend of architectural styles from across the realms. The main entrance features a grand foyer with high ceilings and a grand staircase that leads to the upper levels of the library. The interior is organized into different sections, each dedicated to a particular subject or field of study. The shelves are lined with books, scrolls, and other documents, while the tables and reading areas offer a peaceful and studious atmosphere for scholars to engage in their research. The exterior of the library is equally impressive, with its imposing walls and towers creating an unmistakable presence in the surrounding landscape.

Defenses

Candlekeep Library boasts a formidable array of defenses that make it one of the most secure structures in the realms. The library's walls are reinforced with enchanted stone and steel, making them impervious to most forms of physical damage. The main entrance is guarded by a team of trained sentinels, who carefully scrutinize all those seeking entry to the library. Additionally, the library has a network of hidden passages and secret doors that allow defenders to move throughout the structure unnoticed.
In the event of an attack, Candlekeep has a sophisticated system of alarms and magical wards that can detect and repel intruders. The library's magical defenses are particularly formidable, with a variety of spells and enchantments that can immobilize, blind, or even kill attackers. Moreover, the library's collection is protected by powerful wards that prevent anyone from removing or damaging any of its books or artifacts.
Perhaps the most impressive of all the library's defenses are the golems that protect its inner sanctums. These massive, magically animated constructs are impervious to most forms of attack and can strike with devastating force. In short, Candlekeep Library is an incredibly well-defended structure, and any attacker would need to be extremely skilled or lucky to breach its formidable defenses.

History

Candlekeep Library has a long and storied history that spans several centuries. The library was founded by a group of monks who sought to preserve knowledge and learning in the tumultuous years following the fall of the Dwarven Kingdoms after the Second Calamity. Over time, the library grew in size and scope, attracting scholars and seekers of knowledge from across the realms.
Throughout its history, Candlekeep has weathered many challenges and crises. It has survived wars, plagues, and attacks by raiders and marauders seeking to plunder its vast collection of books and artifacts. Nevertheless, the library has always endured, thanks to the dedication and resilience of its guardians and the unwavering commitment to knowledge and learning that lies at its core.
Today, Candlekeep Library stands as one of the most prestigious and respected centers of learning in the realms. Its vast collection of rare and ancient texts is a testament to the enduring power of knowledge, and its scholars and guardians continue to work tirelessly to preserve and share that knowledge with future generations.

Tourism

Candlekeep Library is a popular destination for tourists and scholars from all corners of the realms. The library's reputation for scholarship and the wealth of knowledge contained within its walls make it an attractive location for those seeking to expand their minds and deepen their understanding of the world.
However, entry into the library is strictly controlled, and tourists are required to comply with certain stipulations. Visitors must bring a gift in the form of a book that is not housed in the libraries collection. This is not as impossible as it seems as the librarians are rather flexible on what is considered a new addition to the collection.
After vistors have gained entry, they must be accompanied by a registered scholar or have obtained prior approval from the library's administration. Lastly, no piece of writing is allowed to leave the library, thus vistors must bring or buy paper and ink to record any information they seek.
Tourists are allowed to access some of the library's public areas, such as the main reading room and exhibition halls, but access to restricted areas is strictly prohibited. Moreover, visitors are required to follow a strict code of conduct while on the library's premises, including maintaining a quiet and studious atmosphere, respecting the library's collection, and refraining from disruptive or disrespectful behavior.
Overall, while Candlekeep Library does receive a steady stream of tourists, it remains primarily a center of learning and research, and entry is limited to those who can demonstrate a genuine commitment to knowledge and scholarship.

Maps

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  Candlekeep Library

  Candlekeep Library, located in Buckbridge, is a vast and impressive library managed by the followers of Oghma and Deneir. Entry is free, but visitors must bring a gift of a book that is not already in the library's extensive collection. With a plethora of tomes, scrolls, and other written works, Candlekeep Library is a haven for scholars and researchers seeking knowledge and information. The librarians are highly knowledgeable and are always eager to assist visitors with their research.

Founding Date

1870

Type

Library

Parent Location

Buckbridge

Owner

Arinthus Brightwood

Ruling/Owning Rank

Keeper of the Tomes

Owning Organization

The Candlekeep Brotherhood