Our international work

International partnerships

Our international work includes multiple collaborations, projects and relationships. We work with library sector partners worldwide to make connections, share knowledge and further the work of libraries internationally.

What we do

• Deliver international priorities under the Knowledge Matters strategy (PDF, 2.8MB).
• Manage and support the Library’s international projects, partnerships and collaborations.
• Contribute to the professional dialogue across the library sector.
• Organise skills and knowledge exchanges with international partners.
• Coordinate professional and diplomatic visits.

International Library Leaders Programme

Our International Library Leaders Programme presents a rare opportunity, over one week, to join an intimate group of mid-career international library professionals at the British Library, and to meet our experts and learn from their experiences of dealing with the everyday issues facing libraries today. 

Applications are now open for the next programme, which will run 1 – 8 July 2026. Read more about the programme.

Endangered Archives Programme

The Endangered Archives Programme (EAP) facilitates the digitisation of archives around the world that are in danger of destruction, neglect or physical deterioration.

Knowledge without borders

Find out about the impact of our international work with partners around the world in our report Knowledge without borders (PDF, 1.4MB).