The London Library

Open to all, we’re an independent library with around one million books and open access shelving – inspiring writers and readers for over 180 years.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Today we’re celebrating the birthday of artist and designer Vanessa Bell - a key figure of the Bloomsbury Group and former member of The London Library.

Bell played a defining role in shaping culture of early 20th century Britain through her work across painting and design.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Join internationally celebrated designer Erdem Moralioglu in conversation with Charlie Porter as they explore the literary inspirations, historical references and imaginary conversations behind ERDEM’s world-renowned collections.

Book now: https://t.co/nsbbxvOuBN

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Last night, Library members put their knowledge to the test at our LL185 Quiz Night, hosted by writer and London Library Ambassador John O’Farrell.

An evening of literary trivia, friendly competition, and plenty of laughs - all in celebration of 185 years of The London Library.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Join The London Library at an exciting moment in our growth as we continue our ambitious £8m capital campaign and expand philanthropic support for one of the UK’s greatest literary institutions.

Find out more: https://t.co/at8abLiS9S

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

#OTD Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was born. The mind behind Sherlock Holmes, Doyle joined the London Library in 1896.

His stories can still be found among our open shelves today - part of a collection designed to be browsed, discovered and borrowed.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

We’re delighted to launch The London Library Digital Archive, created with TownsWeb Archiving and powered by their PastView platform. It's now available to explore.

Explore now: https://t.co/gc1wHsRCaN

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

A quiet corner. A book you weren’t expecting to find. An afternoon that disappears between the shelves. 📚

Become a member to discover around one million books, beautiful reading spaces, and a literary home in the heart of London.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Tucked away in the Library, the Foyle Lightwell offers a quiet space for reading, writing and reflection.

A calm part of The London Library where natural light, books and ideas meet - whether you’re deep in research or simply taking a moment between the shelves. 📚

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Acclaimed author and London Library member Jessie Burton reflects on the inspiration she’s found among the stacks - a space that has shaped the writing of three of her novels.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Four books from Philippa Gregory’s bookshelf 📚

All available to browse and borrow from our collection.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Last week, we welcomed historian Sir Antony Beevor to The London Library for a sold-out event on 'Rasputin and the Downfall of the Romanovs', in conversation with writer and broadcaster Marcel Theroux.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

The Spring 2026 issue of The London Library Magazine.🌿📚

This issue celebrates the life and legacy of former Library President Sir Tom Stoppard, with a tribute led by Sir Tim Rice, alongside features with Sebastian Faulks and Alice Loxton.

Available exclusively to all members.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

We're excited to announce LL185, our summer season of events celebrating 185 years of The London Library as the home of inspiration.

All tickets available via our website: https://t.co/8xFmgVMxjg

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Bank Holiday opening hours 📚
The Library will be closed on Monday 4 May.
We’ll reopen on Tuesday 5 May, 9.30am–9pm.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Last night at in the Reading Room at The London Library, we had a sold-out event with Steve McQueen in conversation with Paul Gilroy on Bounty — a powerful exploration of colonial history, memory, and the layered beauty of Grenada’s landscape 🌿

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Four short stories, recommended by London Library member Richard Ayoade 📚

Sharp, strange, and quietly profound - discover the stories that have stayed with him.

All available to browse and borrow from our collection.

#LondonLibrary #RecommendedReads

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Wherever you are, discover your home of literary inspiration at The London Library.

With Remote Membership, access over a million books, journals & digital resources, plus postal loans delivered to your door.

Learn more via the link in bio 📚

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Follow the shelves and see where they take you...

From quiet corners to hidden stacks, The London Library is a place for wandering minds and unexpected discoveries.

Every visit tells a different story.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

The London Library is alive with ideas.

As part of the National Year of Reading, there’s never been a better time to immerse yourself in books, research and creative thought.

The home of literary inspiration.

Become a member to discover: https://t.co/8PVbWpwZZN

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

🐣 Please note our Easter 2026 opening hours at The London Library:

📅 Closed from Friday 3 April to Monday 6 April
📖 We'll reopen with normal hours on Tuesday 7 April