Can I Study at the London Library?

By Anna Duncan

Are you a student or a professional looking for a quiet and conducive space to study in London? Have you considered the London Library?

The London Library is one of the world’s largest independent lending libraries located in the heart of London. Founded in 1841, it has since been providing access to a vast collection of books, periodicals, and digital resources for its members. Today, it boasts over one million volumes spread across 17 miles of shelving.

If you are wondering whether you can study at the London Library, the answer is yes. The library’s reading rooms are open to members and non-members alike who wish to read, work, or study. However, there are some things you need to know before using the library.

Becoming a Member
To access all services provided by the library including borrowing privileges, you need to become a member. There are several membership categories available depending on your age, profession or interests. Membership fees vary depending on your category and range from £30 per year for under 25s up to £690 per year for standard adult membership.

Using the Reading Rooms
If you only need access to the library’s reading rooms without borrowing books, then non-member day tickets are available for purchase at £15 per visit. Once inside the reading rooms, there are desks with power sockets where you can work on your laptop or tablet. However, there is no Wi-Fi available in order to maintain quietness and avoid distractions.

Library Etiquette
As with any public space that serves as a workspace for many people, there are rules that must be followed while studying at The London Library. These include:

  • No talking is allowed within the reading rooms.
  • Mobile phones must be switched off or set on silent mode.
  • No food or drink is allowed in the reading rooms except for bottled water.
  • Bags larger than A4 size are not allowed.

Conclusion
In summary, studying at the London Library is possible for both members and non-members alike. Membership fees vary depending on your category, but non-member day tickets are also available.

The library provides a conducive environment for studying with its quiet reading rooms and power sockets at every desk. However, it’s important to adhere to the library’s rules and etiquette to ensure a peaceful and productive experience for everyone.