Welcome to The London Library

Founded in 1841, The London Library is one of the world's leading literary institutions. Members can browse and borrow our outstanding collection of books and resources, attend special events, and use our beautiful spaces in central London.

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The London Library Emerging Writers Programme

The London Library Emerging Writers Programme is open for submissions for the fourth year. Geared towards supporting writers at the start of their careers, the Programme is open to anyone who wants to develop their work.

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One million books to borrow

Our collection contains over one million books and periodicals, dating from 1700 to the present day, almost all of which can be borrowed. Browse 17 miles of open access shelves for an unforgettable voyage of literary discovery!

The Collection

Amazing spaces to study, think and create

Inside the Library there’s a vast labyrinth of books, hidden corners and beautiful working spaces. From elegant reading rooms to atmospheric bookstacks, it’s a unique literary oasis in the heart of London.

Inside The Library

Creativity and inspiration for over 175 years

From Sarah Waters to Kazuo Ishiguro; Charles Dickens to TS Eliot; Virginia Woolf to Bram Stoker; we’ve been at the heart of literature for over 175 years. A home for anyone who loves the written word.

Our History

Outstanding electronic resources

Members can access over 25,000 journals from JSTOR and other databases from home or anywhere you like to work! As well as online newspapers, magazines and more.

Our Online Resources

Help Us Bring Light to the Stacks

The 2021/22 Library Fund appeal is raising funds to replace lighting in the Library’s bookstacks. A new system, based on LED fittings and passive infrared sensors, will cut the Library’s total electricity use by 20%.

The Library Fund

Our latest Covid measures

We adapt our working arrangements to the latest Covid restrictions to ensure members and staff can continue to feel safe when using the building. Please check the latest arrangements before your visit to the Library.

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Upcoming Events

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Public Events

20 Jan 2022

Public Events
Artist Talk: Rachel Jones & Victoria Adukwei Bulley (In person)

Artist Rachel Jones in conversation with writer Victoria Adukwei Bulley

20 January 2022 19:15 - 20:15
28 Jan 2022

Public Events
Write & Shine (Online)

An online early morning writing writing workshop with Write & Shine, inspired by Jan Morris

28 January 2022 07:30 - 09:15
17 Feb 2022

Public Events
The Stasi Poetry Circle (Online)

Philip Oltermann on the incredible true story of the Stasi's attempt to fight capitalism with poetry

17 February 2022 19:30 - 20:30

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Welcome to The London Library

The London Library Emerging Writers Programme

One million books to borrow

Amazing spaces to study, think and create

Creativity and inspiration for over 175 years

Outstanding electronic resources

Help Us Bring Light to the Stacks

Our latest Covid measures

Search the Catalogue

Join the Library

eBooks

Scope of the Collections

Online & Digital Collection

Current Covid Measures at the Library

Home

Upcoming Events

Artist Talk: Rachel Jones & Victoria Adukwei Bulley (In person)

Write & Shine (Online)

The Stasi Poetry Circle (Online)

Latest News

Update: eResources Temporarily Down

Announcing Our Spring 2022 Events Programme

The fourth year of the Emerging Writers Programme opens for submisisons

Become a member of The London Library

Welcome to The London Library

The London Library Emerging Writers Programme

One million books to borrow

Amazing spaces to study, think and create

Creativity and inspiration for over 175 years

Outstanding electronic resources

Help Us Bring Light to the Stacks

Our latest Covid measures

Search the Catalogue

Join the Library

eBooks

Scope of the Collections

Online & Digital Collection

Current Covid Measures at the Library

Home

Upcoming Events

Artist Talk: Rachel Jones & Victoria Adukwei Bulley (In person)

Write & Shine (Online)

The Stasi Poetry Circle (Online)

Latest News

Update: eResources Temporarily Down

Announcing Our Spring 2022 Events Programme

The fourth year of the Emerging Writers Programme opens for submisisons

Become a member of The London Library

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