Ways to Visit

The London Library is the world's largest independent lending library, with an outstanding collection of one million volumes, thousands or eResources and an extraordinary history.

Behind its elegant facade overlooking St. James's Square is a vast network of books, where since the mid-nineteenth century, seven buildings have been brought into one and a great centre of learning and ideas has been created.

Access the Library

Choose how you'd like to visit

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

Spend the day reading, writing and researching to experience some of the benefits of Library membership.

A member of staff reaches up to a high shelf in the bookstacks.

Attend an event

Enjoy vibrant talks, workshops and performances in our historied space. Bringing the latest in literature, history and culture to all.

Inua Ellams performs at a lectern in front of the Library's bookshelves.

Public Tours

Join one of our guided tours in person and uncover the architecture, collections, and stories behind one of the world's greatest literary institutions.

People exploring shelves in a public tour of the London Library

Prospective Member Tours

Looking to become a member? Attend a 15-minute Prospective Member Tour to see inside the Library before taking out a membership.

Already a member?

Book an induction tour. Our tailored member induction tours are designed to help you make the most of your membership. Learn how to navigate the collection and catalogue, request and borrow books, and how to use our services and resources.

Already a member?

Member Induction Tours

Our tailored member inductions are designed to help you make the most of your membership.

A narrow aisle in the book stacks, grated iron floor underfoot and colourful spines either side.

Our tailored member inductions are designed to help you make the most of your membership.

Learn how to navigate the collections, use the catalogue, request and borrow books, and discover the services and resources available to members.

Book an Induction