London is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and one of the most iconic features of the city is its many libraries. However, when it comes to the most famous library in London, there can be little debate – it has to be the British Library.
What Is the British Library?
The British Library is not just one of the most famous libraries in London, but in the entire world. It is a national library and one of the largest libraries in existence, boasting over 170 million items in its collection. These items include books, manuscripts, journals, newspapers, maps, and even sound recordings.
The History of the British Library
The British Library was established in 1973 as a result of an act of Parliament that merged two existing institutions – the British Museum Library and the National Lending Library for Science and Technology. The library was originally housed in the British Museum building but moved to its current location at St Pancras in 1997.
Why Is It So Famous?
There are many reasons why the British Library is so famous. Firstly, it houses some of the most important documents and manuscripts from throughout human history. These include original copies of works such as Shakespeare’s First Folio and Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks.
Secondly, it is home to some incredibly rare items such as illuminated manuscripts from medieval times and ancient religious texts such as Buddhist scrolls from Asia.
Thirdly, it is also famous for its exhibitions which showcase some of these amazing items from their collection. Past exhibitions have included displays on Harry Potter (including J.K Rowling’s original handwritten notes), punk rock music, and even maps from different parts of the world throughout history.
Visiting The British Library
If you would like to visit this iconic institution during your time in London then you are certainly not alone! There are a few things that you should keep in mind when planning your visit, however.
Firstly, the library is open to the public but many of the items in its collection are not available for general viewing. You will need to apply for a reader pass if you want access to these materials.
Secondly, there are plenty of other things to see and do at the British Library aside from browsing the collection. They have a great cafe, a bookshop and even a permanent exhibition on the history of writing which is well worth checking out.
In Conclusion
The British Library is without doubt one of the most famous libraries in London (and indeed, the world). Its unique collection and fascinating exhibitions make it a must-visit destination for any bibliophile or lover of history. Whether you’re interested in ancient manuscripts, rare books or just want to soak up some of London’s rich cultural heritage, this iconic institution should be on your list!