Although our roots extend back centuries, we collect everything published today, tomorrow and decades into the future. We have millions of books, but also newspapers, maps, sound recordings, patents and stamps.
Our spaces are open for study, a place to meet friends, to start up a new business or to get inspired by visiting our galleries and events.
We're continuing to experience a major technology outage as a result of a cyber-attack. Our buildings are open as usual, however, the outage is still affecting our website, online systems and services, as well as some onsite services. This is a temporary website, with limited content outlining the services that are currently available, as well as what's on at the Library.
Our conservation appeal is raising money to conserve the most fragile and rare items in our collection, to ensure they are available for generations to come.
You can now explore our best-loved learning resources as we've released 100 articles on a platform called Padlet. Find out more.
We're now able to confirm restoration dates for some of our key services. You'll be able to access more content, view digitised manuscripts and request items remotely again this September. Our CEO Sir Roly Keating explains more in his latest blog.
When our new system for requesting collection items is launched in September you'll need a Reader Pass which has been issued or renewed since 21 March 2024 to use it. We recommend renewing beforehand if you can, so you're ready for launch. Find out more
Please email customer@bl.uk (08.30 - 16.30 Monday to Friday).
Our telephone service is currently unavailable, apologies for any inconvenience.