Biblioteche a Rodi all’epoca di Timachidas

This paper examines the sources on book collections in Rhodes during the Classical and Hellenistic period. Despite information about the 4th and 3rd cent. B.C. being scanty, three inscriptions attest the presence of a public library in the city gymnasion since the mid- 2nd cent. Even though one of these documents is only partially published, a re-examination of all published information sheds further light on this library. Supervised by the gymnasiarchs - who left the daily activities to men appointed by election - the library held great importance for the Rhodian people, who put sanctions into effect in order to preserve it from theft and other harm. Other magistrates are mentioned as having a marginal role in its administration, which involved many written records. Although there is no proof that the authors of the Lindian Chronicle ever consulted this library, these documents are fundamental for partially understanding their cultural background