About Treasures of the British Library

Get a glimpse into the wonders of our vast collection with our free permanent gallery.

Telling the remarkable stories of over 2,000 years of human experience, our Treasures of the British Library Gallery displays some of the world’s most exciting, beautiful and significant books, manuscripts and sound recordings.

Browse through cases including Literature, Art, Maps, Historical Documents, Sacred Texts and more. Discover works by Andrea Levy, Monty Python and Shakespeare, and marvel at Beowulf and Magna Carta.

Not sure where to begin? Book our Treasures Tour for a more in-depth look at the collection items on display or browse our digital guide for a virtual tour around the gallery at the rest of our Grade I-listed building.

More information

Opening times

Open during regular building opening hours. See our Visit page for details and any upcoming closures.

Accessibility and facilities

There is step-free access to the Treasures Gallery. Manual wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge, subject to availability. Please ask a member of staff on arrival.

We welcome guide dogs and assistance dogs. Dog bowls are available at the Information Desk, Reading Rooms and all cafés.

A cloakroom and digital lockers are available for visitors who do not wish to take bags and coats into the exhibition. These are free to use and located on the Lower Ground Floor.

You will find accessible toilets on all floors and baby changing facilities on the Lower Ground Floor, Upper Ground Floor and Floor 1.

Learn more about your visit, accessibility, our facilities and cafés.  

Note about temperature inside the gallery

You may find the Sir John Ritblat Gallery cooler and darker than other areas of the Library. This controlled environment protects any items that may fade, discolour, or be damaged in bright light or humid conditions. We recommend bringing an extra layer for your comfort.

Why is an item I've come to see not on display?

Items are taken off display on a regular basis for conservation reasons and may also be lent to other institutions for exhibition. If you wish to be sure that a particular item is on display, please contact us in advance. Learn more about conservation at the British Library.

Hear more about our events and exhibitions