News article

Lambeth Palace Library is the historic library and record office of the Archbishops of Canterbury and the principal repository of the documentary history of the Church of England. Its collections have been freely available for research since 1610.

The records, manuscripts, rare books, and archives held here date from the ninth century to the present day. Their broad scope reflects the office of Archbishop as head of the Province of Canterbury, his national and international roles in leading the Church of England and the Anglican Communion worldwide, and the wealth and power of Archbishops in past centuries which enabled them to collect books and manuscripts of the highest quality and significance.

The Library Reading Room is open from 10am to 5pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays and from 10am to 7.30pm on Thursdays.

Access to the Library's collections is freely available to readers and appointments are not necessary. However, on their first visit users must obtain a library ticket and bring proofs of identity and current address to do this. Please see our website for further details.

The entrance to the library is through the door set into the wall on Lambeth Palace Road.

The Friends of Lambeth Palace Library are active supporters of the Library, helping it to continue to acquire rare books and manuscripts and to catalogue and conserve its collections.