Backpackers Guide to London

The British Library

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Introduction

England has a long and proud intellectual tradition. It has produced some of the greatest literary figures, scientists and inventors. It has been part of every major cultural movement, and played a key role in the world’s most important historical events.

The British Library helps preserve some of this tradition, holding within its walls thousands of resources reflecting the ideas and events of the last few centuries. While it would take a lifetime to read all of its books, even a short tour is enough to fill its visitors with a sense of awe.

The British Library is spacious, relaxing, well lit, and generally designed to create the perfect atmosphere for study and reflection. It is easily accessible by public transport, and for students or scholars who wish to tap its resources, there are very affordable lodgings within walking distance.

Collections and Journals

The British Library houses a diverse range of collections and academic journals, to assist scholars and students from all fields and industries. These are regularly updated, and—in the fine tradition of scholarship begetting scholarship—play a key role in any research or study. From art history to chemical engineering, psychology to neo-classical architecture, the collections and journals represent the efforts of some of the great thinkers and most renowned experts to record and understand the world.

Exhibits and Multimedia Materials

The British Library not only contains a variety of ideas, but presents it in a variety of forms. Aside from reading material—books, journals, magazines, newspapers—it also showcases paintings, audio visuals and other multi media materials. This makes the ideas come alive, and also allows visitors to appreciate the information from several angles. These are often updated. Some collections are also lent for a limited time, providing an excellent excuse and pay the British Library another visit.

Ashlee House, 261-265 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8QT, England
Tel: +44 (0)20 7833 9400 Fax: +44 (0)20 7833 9677