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Transforming the British Library

We're reimagining what it means to be a 21st century national library.

A visualisation of the renovated foyer in the British Library extension at St Pancras (looking south-west).

Since the British Library was founded our world has changed dramatically. From climate change and global pandemics to the issues that impact us every day, there are ideas and solutions to the challenges we face that can only be found by bringing people and knowledge together. ​

So we're reimagining what it means to be a 21st century national library: forward-looking and fit for the future, bringing knowledge to life to meet the challenges of the century ahead. And we need your help to make this a reality.

The more we know, the more we make possible

The words and thoughts contained within our collection have long helped people all over the globe to uncover the answers they're looking for. But to keep sparking and sharing ideas we need to transform the Library, making space for new inspiration.

Alongside our efforts to expand access online and through public libraries across the UK, our transformation plans will empower millions more people to realise new ideas and possibilities, helping both understanding and imaginations to grow. Together we can achieve so much more than any one of us could alone.

Making a difference, for everyone

Our Knowledge Matters strategy (PDF, 2.8mb) (PDF, 2.8MB) sets out the major transformation projects we're focused on delivering in the years ahead, including the following.

Proposed view of the exterior of the St Pancras Library building from Midland Road.

An expanded national library in London

We're creating state-of-the-art spaces for exhibitions, events, learning and business innovation, and forging closer connections with the communities on our doorstep and beyond.

An artist impression of different groups of people in front of a large building with an Egyptian-style frontage.

A major new home in the heart of Leeds

We're deepening our roots in Yorkshire by creating more opportunities for over 10 million more people in the region, and providing a catalyst for regeneration.

External of renovated Boston Spa site with crowds walking inside.

Revolutionising how we store and share our collection

We're building sustainable, cutting-edge storage facilities in Boston Spa that will allow our collection to keep growing long into the future.

Two schoolboys with a map behind them.

New programmes and resources

These will enable millions more people of all ages to uncover something unexpected, make new discoveries, develop lifelong skills and be inspired to innovate and create.

Across our three transformation projects we aim to embed best practice in environmental performance including reducing their whole-life carbon, being nature-positive and climate resilient. Find out more about our sustainability ambitions (PDF, 4.9mb) (PDF, 4.9MB).

How can I help?

We're seeking the support of visionary philanthropists and partners to make this a reality. For more information about how you can help us transform our buildings and programmes please contact our Development team at supporters@bl.uk.

St Pancras visualisations © RSHP and Miller Hare, Leeds visualisation © Fielden Clegg Bradley Studios, Boston Spa visualisation © Carmody Groarke