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]

With our unique classification system and 17 miles of open shelves, you never know what you might discover at The London Library.

Since 1841, our collection has inspired 185 years of serendipitous discovery for readers, writers and thinkers.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Last week, we were delighted to welcome writers and publishing professionals to the Library for an evening in partnership with Byte the Book.

Thank you to our speakers and everyone who joined us to make connections and consider the next step in their writing journey.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

On 2 July, Library Vice-Presidents Dame Caroline Michel and Sir Tim Rice hosted our 2026 Summer Party for supporters of the Library.

Find out more: https://t.co/7cwgaO3Qbj

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Join us and a panel of experts on Thursday 9th July at 6.30-8.30pm to learn about publishing, make connections and find out all the intricacies and secrets of the submission process.

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

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Last night, we were delighted to officially welcome the newest 26/27 cohort of our flagship Emerging Writers Programme, as we celebrated together at the launch event in the Reading Room.

We can’t wait to see how the Library and its collection inspires and supports this cohort.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Did you know that London Library President Helena Bonham Carter and Simon Callow are long-standing members of The London Library?

Discover six books to add to your reading list that celebrate their literary acting careers - from classic novels to theatrical inspirations.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

This #NationalWritingDay, we're celebrating just a few of the authors who have found inspiration at The London Library over the last 185 years.

From Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf to Kazuo Ishiguro and Hallie Rubenhold, our collection has inspired generations of writers.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Something exciting is coming for National Writing Day... ✍️

If you're not already on our mailing list, now's the time to sign up.

Sign up to the newsletter: https://t.co/ojWqI9W0IJ

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

✍️ We are delighted to welcome a new cohort of 40 participants to our flagship Emerging Writers Programme. The celebrated initiative, now in its eighth year, is geared towards supporting early career writers. We can't wait to see what they create! https://t.co/XGTkeQng64

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Last night, LL85: A Room of One’s Own opened to a sold out audience.

Freya Mavor delivered a captivating performance in the adaptation of Woolf’s essay by award-winning playwright Linda Marshall Griffiths and directed by Roxana Silbert.

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

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

We're gearing up for A Room of One’s Own tomorrow - and we couldn’t be more excited.

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

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Join us for a series of events celebrating 185 years of The London Library as a home of inspiration.

Book now: https://t.co/4dMOVzI4yL

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

Last night, we were joined by fashion designer and London Library member Erdem Moralioglu.

In conversation with writer Charlie Porter, he revealed his muses, inspirations, and how he has used The London Library to research, create and tell new stories.

[The London Library @TheLondonLib]

On Wednesday 3 June, we officially opened the New Room - a permanent, dedicated space for programming at The London Library.

Read the full story: https://t.co/L0DWhFfzMQ

[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