What was copied by monks in monastries?

Up to the 13th century the scriptorium (writing area) was usually in the north walk of the cloister. This area had the huge wall of the monastery church behind it to keep out the wind, a roof above and a south-facing view across the cloister Garth for maximum daylight.

Scribes worked in individual carrels - wooden booths screened from their neighbours each side, but open at the rear and the front. This meant no distractions, since writing and illumination took intense concentration. Only if the weather turned exceptionally cold would the scribes be permitted to cease work and warm their hands in the calefactory (warming room).

Later there was often a special room in monasteries which served as both a library and scriptorium; again daylight was crucial so Windows had to be large and south-facing. Overhead suspended lamps might be used to brighten a gloomy day, but never candles - the risk of spilt wax or even fire burning documents and books was too great.