Using our services
Find out how to search the collections, access our resources or visit one of our reading rooms.
Library and Archives
Search our collections
Curious about the natural world? Then you're in the right place.
The Library and Archives has been developing its unparalleled collection of natural history literature, artwork and information resources since the Museum opened in 1881.
Search across our collections
- Discovery layer (all Library and Archive collections)
- Museum Archive catalogue
Our collections
Learn more about our collections and collection highlights
Recent additions to our library collections:
- Physical books
- E-books (off-site access for Museum staff only)
Electronic resources
- E-journals, scientific databases, e-books (off-site access for Museum staff only)
- Museum Open Access Repository
Our digitised collections
What's new
Collection highlights
The Library holds the world’s most comprehensive collection of material published by Charles Darwin, plus artwork and illustrations from the HMS Beagle voyage
Discover documents and photographs reflecting the Museum’s activities and the experiences of its staff during the World Wars
The Library and Archives hold natural history illustrations and artworks of some of the most accomplished women artists spanning the last four centuries
Public opening times and enquiries
Main reading room in South Kensington, London
Open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 to 16:00
From 5 May, our opening hours are changing. See the service update below for further information.
Visits are by appointment only
Enquiry service (phone)
- Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10:00-16:00
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7942 5460
Enquiry service (email)
- Contact us
- Monday to Friday 10:00 - 16:00
Ornithology Library and Rothschild Collection in Tring, Hertfordshire
- Tuesday and Thursday 09:00 to 17:00 (by appointment)
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7942 6156
- Contact us by email
Service updates
Changes to the Reading Room (South Kensington) opening hours from 5 May 2026.
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10:00–12:30 and 13:30–16:00.
Visitors will be asked to leave the Reading Room during the lunchtime closure.
For further information, please see our visitors page.
Collection audit week 11 - 15 May 2026
We will be closed to enquiries and appointments during this time.
About us
Find out how the Library and Archives has evolved to support a broad range of research.