British Library
We are the national library of the UK. Our shelves hold over 170 million items - a living collection that gets bigger every day.
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.
I want to...
Consult the collection
Search our online catalogue to find most of our printed collections and some freely available online resources, but not everything is available.
Use the Library
Our Reading Rooms in London and Yorkshire are open, but access to our collection and online resources is limited.
Visit our buildings
Our buildings in London and Yorkshire are open as usual. Find our opening hours, facilities and access information.
Attend an event
Discover what's on at the Library. We have five-star exhibitions, events and courses, family activities, free galleries and tours.
Find schools information
Explore our free workshops and activities for schools, available in London, Leeds and online.
Get business support
Start-up, protect or grow your business. Our centres across the UK offer expert advice for all stages of your business journey.
News
Restoring our services – 30 August 2024 update
Restoring our services – 30 August 2024 update
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.
Get ready to order remotely
Get ready to order remotely
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
Beyond the Bassline: 500 Years of Black British Music – on sale now
Beyond the Bassline: 500 Years of Black British Music – on sale now
Our latest exhibition is the first major exhibition of its kind anywhere in the world, travelling back five centuries to discover the layered Black experiences that have birthed a thriving musical culture and history. Beyond the Bassline opens 26 April and you can book your tickets today.
Support our work
As a charity, we work to preserve and share our collection of over 170 million items, which grows every day.
Contact us
Please email customer@bl.uk (08.30 - 16.30 Monday to Friday).
Our telephone service is currently unavailable, apologies for any inconvenience.