The London Library was deeply saddened by the death of our Patron, Her Majesty The Queen earlier this month. Queen Elizabeth II became the Library’s Patron in 2004, following the death of our former Patron, the Queen Mother, in 2002.
On 17 February 1993, Her Majesty visited the Library for its 150th anniversary, accompanied by her husband, H.R.H The Duke of Edinburgh. The visit was in support of the Library’s 150th-anniversary appeal to raise money for the Mason’s Yard extension.
During the event, Her Majesty and H.R.H The Duke of Edinburgh were entertained by readings from a host of guests, including Sir Alec Guinness, Gayle Hunnicutt, Noel Annan, and John Julius Norwich.
The Queen was also given the opportunity to view books gifted to the Library by Prince Albert and Queen Mary when the Library was founded in 1841.
The Library is grateful to Her Majesty’s service and commitment over many years. Philip Marshall, Director of The London Library, was honoured to represent the Library at Her Majesty's funeral service on 19 September.
A book of condolence is available for members to sign in the Issue Hall. If members are unable to visit the Library and wish to contribute, please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will be happy to leave a message on your behalf.
The Library will be open late one Wednesday a month throughout the year.
On these days, some reading rooms will be unavailable to members in order to facilitate events. Desk spaces will be available in other reading rooms and throughout the rest of the Library.
Late opening will take place on the following Wednesday evenings in 2024:
19 June: 9.30am – 9pm
17 July: 9.30am – 9pm
21 August: 9.30am – 9pm
18 September: 9.30am – 9pm
9 October: 9.30am – 9pm
20 November: 9.30am – 9pm
18 December: 9.30am – 9pm
The London Library public events programme returns for autumn. This season, we have lots of exciting events in store. Join us as we kick off the programme on 15 September to explore all things sex and the city with Megan Nolan and Amber Medland in conversation with Chris Power. On 16 September we invite you to start your day with a burst of creativity with Write & Shine, live from The London Library. On 29 September, Katy Hessel of the Great Women Artists Instagram and podcast discusses her new book The Story of Art Without Men with Frieze editor-at-large Jennifer Higgie. And on 7 October, Inua Ellams brings his exhilarating live literature phenomenon the R.A.P (Rhythm and Poetry) Party back to the Library for an evening of hip-hop-inspired poems and favourite hip-hop songs.
More events to be announced soon. Watch this space.
Member discounts available. Browse the autumn programme.
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