British Library - We’re reopening for everyone

 

British Library For research, inspiration and enjoyment

We're reopening for everyone Our users are what make us tick. We can’t tell you how much we’ve missed seeing you poring over manuscripts in our Treasures Gallery, gazing out over the Library from the Members’ Room or typing away thoughtfully at one of our public desks. So we’re pleased to let you know that from 1 September you’ll be able to visit our galleries, Members’ Room and public spaces once more by pre-booking tickets online.

Hebrew Manuscripts: Journeys of the Written Word Journey beyond the Bible to discover the history, culture and personal stories of Jewish people through the ages. Rarely-seen treasures from as far back as the 10th century will take you from Europe and North Africa, to the Middle East and China. Along the way you’ll meet the sages versed in magic, Kabbalah and alchemy, and even learn a love potion or two, as you discover the power of the written word. Generously supported by the Dr Michael and Anna Brynberg Charitable Foundation. Travel the world

Sir John Ritblat Gallery: Treasures of the British Library Magna Carta. Shakespeare. Florence Nightingale. Gandhi. Explore some of the world’s most significant books, maps and manuscripts on a journey around the best-loved treasures in our collection, for free. Be wowed We saved you a seat Have you missed the inspiring spaces and sounds of the Library as much as we have? We’ll be opening a small number of desks in our public areas for you to return to work here. You’ll need to pre-book a desk and your booking will last all day. We’ll be releasing seats weekly, with the first week available with our Reading Room tickets on Thursday 27 August. Grab your spot Return to the Members' Room For working or relaxing, we’re really pleased to be reopening our Members’ Room from 1 September to Members with a pre-booked ticket. We’ll be limiting capacity to start off with to keep everyone safe, but look forward to welcoming back more Members as soon as we can. We’ll be in touch with Members to let you know how to reserve some relaxation. Not a Member yet?

Keeping everyone safe We’ve been working really hard to make some changes so we can welcome you here safely. We’re limiting the numbers in all our spaces, including our galleries and Reading Rooms, and have implemented a one-way system throughout the Library to help you keep a safe distance. This may take a little longer but it’s keeping everyone safe. You must wear a face covering in all areas of the Library. If you’re exempt please let a member of staff know. Our toilets are open with regular, enhanced cleaning. We’ll be frequently cleaning all our spaces, especially high touch points. Please ensure you wash your hands frequently and use our hand sanitisers where available. We’ve removed a few interactive elements in our exhibitions to reduce contact. Don’t worry, there’s still plenty to see.

Not in London? We’ve got just the ticket Like you, we were disappointed to have to postpone our biggest ever events season when we closed in March, but we’re excited to reveal many of those events will now appear in our first season of digital events this autumn. Members and Patrons' priority booking opens on 1 September with tickets on general sale from 2 September. Tickets are free or just £5. Highlights include our Food Season, returning for the third year running, with speakers like Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Asma Khan and Claudia Roden. We’ll email you again nearer the time with all the juicy details.   Food Season is supported by KitchenAid. Be first in line