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.
Both Museum scientists and visitors can use the discovery layer to find specific articles, journals and books as well as the Museum Archives, art and manuscript collections.
New for autumn 2019
We are increasing digital access to our collections by releasing digitised versions of items from the Library’s Special Collections.
Digital versions of some of our unique artwork collections have been made available for the first time, the content of which belongs to the Public Domain. You can view our Digitised Collections, or simply explore our collection pages to discover the many treasures of the NHM Library and Archives.
Opening hours
Reading Room opening hours (by appointment)
- South Kensington: Tuesday to Thursday 10.00-16.00
- Tring: Monday to Thursday 9.30-15.30
Enquiries (phone and email)
- South Kensington: Monday to Friday 10.00-16.00
- Tring: Monday to Thursday 9.30-15.30
Service notices
Using our services
Find out how to search the collections, access our resources or visit one of our reading rooms.
Our collection
Browse the highlights of our incredible collection or use the search tools below to find exactly what you are looking for.
- eJournals
- Databases
- Museum Archives catalogue
- Wallace letters online (please use Firefox or Microsoft Edge browsers)
About us
Find out how the Library and Archives has evolved to support a broad range of research.
Service notices
Access to Ornithology collections
Due to essential maintenance works, access to our library ornithology collections (Tring) will be restricted until further notice. Library staff can provide further details on request.
Forthcoming Reading Room Closures 2020/2021
Library and Archives staff will be conducting collections management work during the below dates and therefore will be closed to external enquiries and appointments:
2020
- 24-28 February
- 16-20 March
- 20-24 April
- 18-22 May
- 15-19 June
- 20-24 July
- 17-21 August
- 21-25 September
- 19-23 October
- 16-20 November
- 21 December - 1 January 2021
2021
- 1 January
- 18-22 January
- 15-19 February
- 15-19 March
Contact us
- South Kensington +44 (0)20 7942 5460
- Tring +44 (0)20 7942 6156
Collection highlights
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The Darwin collection
The Library holds the world’s most comprehensive collection of material published by Charles Darwin, plus artwork and illustrations from the HMS Beagle voyage
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The Museum in the First and Second World Wars
Discover documents and photographs reflecting the Museum’s activities and the experiences of its staff during the World Wars
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Women artists
The Library and Archives hold natural history illustrations and artworks of some of the most accomplished women artists spanning the last four centuries