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.
Our CEO Sir Roly Keating shares a new blog about services we’ve recently restored, and our plans for the next phase of recovery from last October’s cyber-attack.
This Green Libraries Week we are pleased to share our new Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy which sets out the practical action we’re taking in response to the climate crisis. Find out more.
We’ve restored access to our hard copy newspaper collection, which you can consult in our Newsroom in London, and Boston Spa in Yorkshire. Search for what you need in our catalogue, and place your request using our new online form. 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.