We are pleased to announce that a dedicated research space to review all our archival and safe material is now available for booking. The Archive & Research Room is located next to The Times Room and appointments can be made via the archivist.

To view any archive or safe material please email Nathalie Belkin, Archivist at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book your invigilation. 

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all members for being patient while the space was being renovated and were subject to a waiting list for an appointment. This space will make it much quicker and easier to view materials, and we look forward to welcoming you.

We’re delighted to announce a new print resource available. The Idler offers readers a cultivated and reflective periodical that champions the value of time, leisure, and independent thought in an increasingly fast-paced world. Blending essays, interviews, and literary extracts around a central theme, each issue provides an eclectic and intellectually engaging reading experience suited to moments of deliberate pause. 

This print periodical is currently available in the Reading Room.

Following a safety review including guidance from the London Fire Brigade and advice across the cultural sector, we have come to the decision that the Library cannot safely accommodate e-bikes or their batteries inside the building.

Our bike store is an enclosed area beneath the main building and close to critical services. Lithium-ion battery fires can be extremely intense, burn intensely and cannot be controlled using standard extinguishers. While new products, such as lithium-ion fire blankets are emerging, it would not be safe or appropriate for staff to manage such an incident, and we are not resourced to inspect or monitor personal batteries or chargers.

With immediate effect:

• E-bikes must not be left in the bike storage areas
• Charging e-bike batteries is not permitted anywhere on site
• Batteries left in common areas or escape routes may be removed or asked to be taken off site

We fully recognise the growing popularity of e-bikes and remain committed to exploring future solutions as industry guidance and technology develop. Thank you for your understanding as we prioritise the safety of staff, members and the collection. Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions.