Give one million books this Christmas

Membership of The London Library is the perfect Christmas present to give to the book-lover in your life!  Members can browse and borrow from our unique collection of over one million books on 17 miles of open shelves; including history, literature, art, and much more, plus access thousands of periodals, newspapers and magazines. They also have access to extensive online resources which can be used from anywhere in the world.

Founded in 1841 we are the world’s largest independent lending library - a place of creativity and curiosity, where we seek to inspire and support readers, writers and scholars of all kinds. Today, 6,500 members of all ages and backgrounds, including some of the most familiar names in the literary world, find the Library’s resources invaluable. 

With an unforgettable building in beautiful St. James's Square, with beautiful rooms and spaces to read, write and think, The London Library is a magical place at the heart of literature.

Members have access to:

  • an incredible collection of 1 million books, with 6,000 more being added every year, almost all of which are available to browse on open shelves and borrow;
  • subscriptions to thousands of journals and periodicals and a wide range of digital resources;
  • beautiful and practical spaces in which to read and write, including five reading rooms and a large number of individual study areas, open six days a week with late night openings;
  • expert staff, always on hand to assist with enquiries;
  • a postal loans service anywhere within Europe, and much more.

    The London Library offers various different types of membership, all of which may be given as gifts. Membership starts from just over £22 a month. Find out more about our types of membership here.  During the Christmas period gift memberships include a London Library bag and postcard for your gift message and will be wrapped with a Christmas ribbon.

    Special offer

    As a special offer for LRB readers we are delighted to provide a free pair of event tickets to any upcoming London Library event. Simply quote 'LRB' on your membership form under how you heard about us and we will contact you to arrange your free tickets.