The diversity and richness of the contexts that inform Iris Murdoch's writing became increasingly evident when, in 2004, Kingston University acquired the working library from her Oxford home and established the Centre for Iris Murdoch Studies. This collection of books comprises over 1000 volumes (many of which are heavily annotated), including works on philosophy, psychology, theology, poetry, literature, the theatre, painting and travel. The breadth and variety within this library, acquired over some 60 years, give an indication of the many subjects that fascinated Murdoch until her death in 1999. This library and other recent additions to the Murdoch Collections at Kingston University are now providing fresh contexts for the reconsideration of Iris Murdoch's work.¹