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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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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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

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

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

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

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

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Upcoming Events

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Public Events

28 Oct 2021

Public Events
Black History Month @The London Library R.A.P Party (In-person)

Inua Ellams brings his live literature phenomenon the R.A.P. Party to the Library

28 October 2021 19:30 - 21:30
04 Nov 2021

Public Events
Speak, Silence: In search of W. G. Sebald (In-person & virtual)

Carole Angier discusses her new biography of W. G. Sebald in conversation with Iain Sinclair

04 November 2021 19:30 - 20:30
11 Nov 2021

Public Events
Through the Looking Glasses (Virtual)

Travis Elborough discusses the spectacular history and life of spectacles.

11 November 2021 19:30 - 20:30

Become a member of The London Library

Members have access to over a million books and periodicals, a superb online offering and an unforgettable building in beautiful St. James's Square. 7,000 members, including some of the most familiar names in the literary world, find the Library’s resources invaluable. We would love you to join them...

Join Online

Our latest Covid measures

Welcome to The London Library

Amazing spaces to study, think and create

Outstanding electronic resources

Creativity and inspiration for over 175 years

One million books to borrow

Help Us Bring Light to the Stacks

Search the Catalogue

Join the Library

eBooks

Scope of the Collections

Online & Digital Collection

Opening arrangements from 19 July

Home

Upcoming Events

Black History Month @The London Library R.A.P Party (In-person)

Speak, Silence: In search of W. G. Sebald (In-person & virtual)

Through the Looking Glasses (Virtual)

Latest News

Our New Partnership with English PEN

Update on Work to the Red Stair Toilets

Help Us Bring Light to the Stacks

Become a member of The London Library

Our latest Covid measures

Welcome to The London Library

Amazing spaces to study, think and create

Outstanding electronic resources

Creativity and inspiration for over 175 years

One million books to borrow

Help Us Bring Light to the Stacks

Search the Catalogue

Join the Library

eBooks

Scope of the Collections

Online & Digital Collection

Opening arrangements from 19 July

Home

Upcoming Events

Black History Month @The London Library R.A.P Party (In-person)

Speak, Silence: In search of W. G. Sebald (In-person & virtual)

Through the Looking Glasses (Virtual)

Latest News

Our New Partnership with English PEN

Update on Work to the Red Stair Toilets

Help Us Bring Light to the Stacks

Become a member of The London Library

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