Visit the Library
The London Library is a membership library. Discover how you can visit the Library without membership
Key information
Opening hours
Monday – Tuesday: 9:30am – 9pm
Wednesday – Saturday: 9:30am – 5.30pm
Sunday: Closed
We open late until 9pm on occasional Wednesdays. Some reading rooms may be in use for events and not available to Library users.
Wednesday – Saturday: 9:30am – 5.30pm
Sunday: Closed
We open late until 9pm on occasional Wednesdays. Some reading rooms may be in use for events and not available to Library users.
Find us
Our main entrance is located in St. James's Square. An alternative members' entrance is located at ground level via Mason's Yard, off Duke Street St James's.
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Contact us
Get in touch with a member of our team about your visit.
Public access to the Library
The best way to experience the Library is to become a member but there are ways to visit before deciding which membership is right for you.
Purchase a Day Pass
Experience the Library for a single day by purchasing a Day Pass.
Attend an event
Enjoy one of our spectacular events uncovering the latest in literature.
Book a public tour
Explore the Library's history, collection and hidden stacks.
Using the Library, Services & Facilities
Alongside one million volumes and thousands of eResources, members have access to a range of facilities that support reading, writing and research needs.
Whether you are spending a few hours browsing the stacks or a full day researching, you will find quiet reading rooms, individual study spaces, WiFi throughout the building and practical facilities to help make your visit comfortable and productive.
Reading Rooms
Choose from five atmospheric reading rooms and 160 desks to read, write, research and be inspired.
Building map
What’s on
Join our community of curious minds
Public Event
The Carmen Talks: Getting the Good Stuff Out There
A lecture by Kit de Waal to honour Virago’s founder, Carmen Callil