The London Library

The London Library is an independent lending library and a registered charity located in London, established in 1841. It serves as a prominent literary institution, dedicated to the advancement of education, learning, and knowledge, primarily through the provision and maintenance of a comprehensive library collection focused on the arts and humanities.

History and Background

Founded on the initiative of Thomas Carlyle, who was dissatisfied with certain policies of the British Museum Library, The London Library has been located at 14 St James's Square in the St James's area of the City of Westminster since 1845. Since its inception, it has grown into one of the world's leading literary institutions, housing a collection of around one million volumes.

Membership and Access

Membership to The London Library is open to all, subject to payment of an annual subscription. The library also offers life and corporate memberships. As of 2023, the library had approximately 7,500 members.

Governance

The London Library is governed as a registered charity under the charity number 312175 and operates as a self-supporting, independent institution. It was incorporated by Royal Charter first granted on 13 June 1933, with a supplemental charter in 1988, and a new Royal Charter granted by Queen Elizabeth II on 6 July 2004, which revoked previous charters. The library has its own byelaws and possesses the authority to make or amend its rules. The governance structure includes a royal patron, an elected president and vice presidents, and an elected board of trustees, comprising up to 15 members including a Chairman and Treasurer.

Notable Patrons and Leadership

The library's royal patron is Queen Camilla. As of recent records, the President is Helena Bonham Carter, and the Chairman of Trustees is Simon Godwin. The Director of The London Library is Philip Marshall.

Activities and Financials

The charity's main activities focus on maintaining the library in London with a collection embracing the arts and humanities, advancing education, learning, and knowledge. In the financial year ending 31 March 2023, The London Library reported a total income of approximately £6.04 million and total expenditure of about £4.63 million. Income sources include donations and legacies, charitable activities, investment income, and other trading activities. The expenditure reflects costs associated with raising funds and carrying out charitable activities.

Cultural and Literary Significance

The London Library has played a significant cultural role and attracted many literary figures over its history. T. S. Eliot, a long-serving President of the Library, famously stated in 1952 that the disappearance of The London Library would be a disaster to civilisation, underscoring its importance as a literary and educational institution.

This overview highlights The London Library's role as a historic, charitable institution dedicated to fostering literary culture and learning in London.

[1] https://www.londonlibrary.co.uk/governance [2] https://www.londonlibrary.co.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/312175 [4] https://www.londonlibrary.co.uk/support-us/international-supporters [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Library