Watch our quick guides to getting started with your research at the Library. Find out how to register for a Reader Pass and start using our Reading Rooms. All the beautiful items featured are from our collections.
You can also watch a series of videos which explore our collections.
Registering for a Reader Pass
To use the Library you need a free Reader Pass. You can pre-register for a Pass before your visit to save time. You will need to bring identification on your first visit, make sure you check our list of accepted documents first.
Using the Reading Rooms
The main Library building is at St Pancras in London, but you can find out more about our locations and how to visit. You may find that other London libraries are more relevant for you, we have compiled a list. To protect our collections, we have guidelines for using the Reading Rooms as well as video guides to using collection items.
Ordering items using the catalogues
Our main catalogue is Explore the British Library, which you can use to search across all our collections. We also have a range of specialist catalogues, including one for Archives and Manuscripts.
All items featured are from the British Library collections. Find more images with our Images Online service.
