I recently had the pleasure of attending a series of afternoon lectures here in Newcastle-upon-Tyne's magnificent Literary & Philosophical Society (The Lit & Phil), on the theme of 'Romanticism And The Invention Of Mountaineering' Papers were presented by Professor Simon Bainbridge, Dr Jonathan Westaway and Dr Penelope Bradshaw. Some info from the library's website:-

'The Literary & Philosophical Society (Lit & Phil) is the largest independent library outside London, housing over 150,000 books. A wide selection of current fiction and non-fiction can be found alongside historical collections covering every field of interest.

The music library is without equal in the North of England, including 8,000 CDs and 10,000 LPs. For more information, please access the link on the right hand side to the music library webpage.

Our Grade II* listed building was opened in 1825 and the magnificent reading rooms remain largely unchanged. Our collection is coupled with an extensive set of periodicals, providing an exceptional resource for both general reader and academic researcher.

In addition to the library, the Society hosts a wide range of events including book launches, concerts, lectures, readings and workshops that cover a variety of topics and issues. Both members and non-members are welcome to attend these events.'