Society and book culture: The rare book collection was discovered in Scotland

A literary treasure trove has been discovered in a hidden cupboard at a library in Inverclyde.

The rare book collection was discovered by archivist Neil Dickson at Greenock's Watt Library.

It includes a 1538 edition of letters by Roman philosopher Cicero and an 1827 illustrated edition of John Milton's Paradise Lost - one of only 50 copies.

Mr Dickson discovered the hidden cupboard behind an old plan chest while working his way through the archives at Watt Library.

He said: "I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the cupboard which obviously hadn't been opened for twenty, thirty years or longer.

"I was absolutely stunned when I realised what was inside - I have never seen such a collection of books in one place and certainly not under these circumstances.

As well as books dating back to the 1530s, the collection includes 17th and 18th century volumes on surgery, witchcraft and exploration.

The 1827 edition of Paradise Lost features illustrations designed and engraved by the artist John Martin.

The collection displayed at the McLean Museum, Greenock, on Saturday, July 28.