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Reading Rooms and study spaces

Use our free study spaces in London and West Yorkshire. They all have comfy seats, power outlets and free Wi-Fi.

A woman sat intently studying an old book at a Reading Room desk at the British Library.
View from above of the Humanities Reading Room in the British Library in London, with people sat at desks.

Reading Rooms

We have 11 Reading Rooms in London and one in West Yorkshire. These are quiet, dedicated spaces where you can access items in our collection. You can also use the Reading Rooms for personal study even if you’re not using any collection items.

They all have comfy seats, power outlets and free Wi-Fi.

Anyone over 18 can use these rooms, you just need a free Reader Pass.

Each Reading Room has a different specialty, and some items can only be consulted in certain rooms. We also have specialist staff – our Reference team – in each room who can help you consult our collection.

Reading Room FAQsList of all rooms
The public desks at the British Library in London.

Public desks

We have desks available around our public spaces in London, with free Wi-Fi. Anyone can use these desks for free, but you can only consult collection items in our Reading Rooms.

In our public study areas, you are welcome to bring coats, bags, and drinks from home or our cafés.

Several people sit talking and reading papers and books in the Members' Room of the British Library, London.

Members' Room

Our Members' Room in London is available to those with a yearly paid-for membership.

It offers relaxing spaces, with a private bar, a café and a study room. An ideal spot for catching up with a friend or focussing on work.

Membership

Reading Room FAQs

How do I view collection items in the Reading Rooms?

We’re a bit different to your local library. You can’t take the books out, but you can order collection items to consult in one of our Reading Rooms in London and Yorkshire.

All you need is a free Reader Pass. This must have been issued or renewed since 21 March 2024 if you want to request items online in advance.

Find out what’s available in each Reading Room and how to request items.

Can anyone use the Reading Rooms?

Yes, anyone over the age of 18 can use our Reading Rooms. You just need a free Reader Pass. This also lets you request items from our collection to view in the Reading Rooms.

You will be asked to agree to our terms of use when you register, which helps us keep our collection safe.

Can you work or study in the Reading Rooms?

Yes. If you have a Reader Pass you can study at the British Library, even if you’re not using any collection items. Just show your Reader Pass at the Reading Room security desk as you enter.

You can also choose which of the Reading Rooms to use, unless you are combining your study time with using collection items. Some collection items can only be consulted in certain Reading Rooms, you can contact our team for more information about this.

Where are the Reading Rooms?

We have 11 Reading Rooms in London and one in Yorkshire. Find out where these are located in the building.

Are there any rules for using the Reading Rooms?

Our Reading Rooms are calm, inspiring places to work and view the Library’s collection. We are proud that our St Pancras site is regarded as one of the best libraries to study at in London.

As we are sure you can understand, things are a little different at the British Library, so we do ask you to observe a few rules when you’re in the Reading Rooms:

  • pens can’t be used in the Reading Rooms - just pencils please
  • leave any coats, bags or laptop cases in the cloakroom or in a locker
  • no food or drink to be taken in or consumed in the Reading Rooms
  • leave your mobile phone and laptop on silent, and headphones at a low volume.

The temperatures inside the Reading Rooms are set to protect our collection and may feel cool, so we suggest bringing an extra layer for your comfort.

What if I have a question?

Contact our customer service team for general enquiries and questions about requesting collection items.

If you need help with your research or to check which Reading Room to visit you can always ask our librarians.

Opening hours

London Reader Registration

View the main opening hours page for any closures. Closed on bank holidays.

Monday–Thursday
–
Friday
–
Saturday
–
Sunday
Closed

London Reading Rooms

Maps, Manuscripts, and Asian and African Studies Reading Rooms close at 17.00 Monday – Saturday.

View the main opening hours page for any closures. Closed on bank holidays.

Monday
–
Tuesday–Thursday
–
Friday–Saturday
–
Sunday
Closed

West Yorkshire Reading Room

View the main opening hours page for any closures. Closed on bank holidays.

Monday–Friday
–
Saturday–Sunday
Closed