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.
Our collections
- Learn more about our collections and collection highlights
Search across our collections
- Discovery layer (all Library and Archive collections)
- Museum Archive catalogue
Electronic resources
- E-journals, scientific databases, e-books (off-site access for Museum staff only)
Our digitised collections
- Digitised special collections
- Biodiversity Heritage Library (BHL)
- Wallace letters online (Firefox or Microsoft Edge browsers needed)
- Museum Open Access Repository
Notice to public visitors – public reading rooms and digitisation service remain closed
Library and Archives staff are working from home, monitoring email enquiries and responding where possible.
Contact us
Using our services
Find out how to search the collections, access our resources or visit one of our reading rooms.
About us
Find out how the Library and Archives has evolved to support a broad range of research.
Opening hours
Reading room
- South Kensington: Closed until further notice
- Tring: Closed until further notice
Enquiries (email only until further notice)
- South Kensington: Monday to Friday 10.00-16.00
- Tring: Monday to Thursday 9.30-15.30
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