Why were books chained to the desks?

Answer 1

Books were often chained to desks in libraries and schools during the medieval and early modern periods to prevent theft and ensure that they remained accessible to all. At a time when books were rare and expensive, chaining them allowed patrons to read them while safeguarding the valuable texts. This practice reflected the high value placed on books and the need to protect communal resources in an era of limited literacy and access to knowledge.