Now an English college is cannibalizing its library and cashing out, to pay for some building renovations.

FORBES: On The Block

But Margery's letter, as the first English Valentine, has added significance for scholars and is currently part of a British Library exhibition on the evolution of the English language.

BBC: First Valentine: Lasting legacy of 500-year-old love

But many of the other rooms are not--you can comfortably play billiards on the fine English table, a twin of one at Buckingham Palace, but the library or Jade Room may get a bit sticky.

FORBES: Escapes

In January, the head of the French national library system said Google's plans would facilitate the hegemony of the English language since it planned to scan libraries in English-speaking countries first.

FORBES: Google's Scan Plan Hits More Bumps

According to the British Library, only three clauses remain valid, the final one defending the freedom and rights of the English Church.

BBC: Quiz of the week's news

When its library moved to massive new premises 1.5 km away, it left behind one of the great English spaces: the 1857 Round Reading Room designed by Sydney Smirke, with its shallow dome, surrounded by an 8, 100 sq m internal court.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia