The British Library is a major research library, with items in many languages and in many formats, both print and digital: books, manuscripts, journals, newspapers, magazines, sound and music recordings, videos, play-scripts, patents, databases, maps, stamps, prints, drawings.

The British Library is the national library of the United Kingdom and the largest national library in the world by a number of items catalogued. It is estimated to contain 150–200 million+ items from many countries.

We welcome learners of all ages to the British Library, from school students and teachers to families and community groups. Our collection – filled with treasures including ancient manuscripts, world maps, historic newspapers, music recordings, and contemporary photographs – is at the heart of our unique learning programme which offers a range of opportunities to explore, connect and interact both onsite, online and nationally.

8 million learners come to our website every year to explore a wealth of subjects

Each year, over 35,000 participants take part in a rich mix of creative programmes including workshops, masterclasses, performances, courses and discovery days. Led by our team of specialist educators and using the Harry M Weinrebe Learning Centre and our major exhibitions, the programme combines opportunities to encounter original and rare objects together with a skills-based approach centred around critical thinking, research, and visual, verbal and digital literacy.

8 million learners come to our website every year to explore a wealth of subjects from Gothic literature and medieval history to First World War propaganda and feminism. Users can access thousands of digitised treasures from our collection as well as fascinating interpretative essays, films, animations and teachers’ notes.

CENL SURVEY – UK