Readers can request items in advance of visits to the St Pancras Reading Rooms by logging on to Explore the British Library to order items online.
You request items in exactly the same way as you would when in our Reading Rooms. Having logged on to Explore the British Library, searched and found an item you wish to order:
- Click the 'I want this tab'
- Click 'Go' to have the item delivered to a Reading Room'
- A new window opens, connecting you to our order system. The item's details are displayed; click the ‘Add to Reservation List’ link at the foot of the details
- A system message confirms that the item has been added to the Reservation List
- Click on the 'Reservation List' button to display your Reservation List
For any item you wish to request:
- Change the date required to the date of your intended visit:
- Click the date in the 'Date Required' column
- In the date pop-up window, click the date in the 'New date' box
- Use the calendar displayed to choose the date required
- The new date will be displayed; click 'Close' to close the pop-up window
- The new date required is displayed in your Reservation List
- Click on 'Request', under the 'Action' heading
From the Document Details screen:
- Select a Reading (Room) Location from the drop-down box
NB: Some material can only be viewed in certain Reading Rooms - Order multiple parts/select specific issues, if applicable
- Do not fill out the Seat Number box
- Click 'Go' to submit your request
You are returned to the Reservation List and the status of the submitted request displays 'Requested'.
Note:
- Delivery times may vary; delivery information is provided during the requesting process.
- Before you visit us, you can confirm that your requested items have been delivered to the Reading Room by contacting Reader Services Enquiries.
- Readers can request remotely 24 hours a day, Monday – Sunday
- You may order up to 10 items per day
- Online Help is available.
