Monastic libraries in England The forty-eighth Rule of Saint Benedict prescribes extensive and habitual "holy reading" for the brethren. Three primary types of reading were done by the monks in medieval times. Monks would read privately during their personal time, as well as publicly during services and at mealtimes. In addition to these three mentioned in the Rule, monks would also read in the infirmary. Monasteries were thriving centers of education, with monks and nuns actively encouraged to learn and pray according to the Benedictine Rule. Rule 38 states that 'these brothers' meals should usually be accompanied by reading, and that they were to eat and drink in silence while one read out loud.
Monastic libraries in England The forty-eighth Rule of Saint Benedict prescribes extensive and habitual "holy reading" for the brethren Three primary types of reading were done by the monks in medieval times Monks would read privately during their personal time as well as publicly during services and at mealtimes In addition to these three mentioned in the Rule monks would also read in the infirmary Monasteries were thriving centers of education with monks and nuns actively encouraged to learn and pray according to the Benedictine Rule Rule 38 states that 'these brothers' meals should usually be accompanied by reading and that they were to eat and drink in silence while one read out loud