By opening up a world of ideas we inspire people to do amazing things.  

Write a bestseller. Make a scientific discovery. Start a business.

As a charity, we work to preserve and share our collection of over 170 million items, which grows every single day.

From a single donation to a lifetime as a Patron, your support will help us keep our outstanding collection free and accessible to everyone, for research, inspiration and enjoyment.

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Coloured plates extracted from "Les Modes Parisiennes" cover image

Your support helps us keep a world of inspiration open for everyone. 

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As a Patron, you will enjoy exclusive access to our breathtaking collection and the expertise of our curators. 

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Save our Sounds

Find out how your donations support our work and how you can help to preserve the world's knowledge.

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Exciting new journeys start at the British Library.

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