• Collections

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    We welcome researchers in the scholarly use of the Royal Society's collections, which are of international importance in the history of science. Our resources include manuscripts, printed books and paintings amassed to provide a record of scientific achievements over almost 350 years.

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    Printed works 

    The Library contains over 70,000 titles, published from the 1470s to the present day. The main strength of the collections is in the 17th and 18th centuries; from the 1680s to the mid 19th century the policy of the Library was to acquire every important scientific publication.
    Search the printed works catalogue.

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    Archives 

    An extraordinary and unrivalled record of the development of science that spans nearly 350 years, the archive collection is a unique resource for historians, particularly historians of science.
    Search the archives catalogue

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    Image library

    The Image Library houses a multitude of beautiful treasures including over 6,000 photographs, engravings and paintings of past and present Fellows and a large collection of images taken from our manuscripts and printed works.
    Search the images catalogue

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    Fellows

    The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Archive Resource is a database of biographical information on past Fellows of the Royal Society from 1660 onwards. The Sackler Foundation generously funded the creation of the Resource.
    Search the catalogue of fellows and their works

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Researching the Royal Society's library and archive collections

The Royal Society's library and archives are open to the public. Joining is quick and simple. It takes just a few minutes to register and new readers are always welcome.

Before you visit the library and archives

  • New readers are encouraged to discuss your requirements in advance to ensure that you get the greatest benefit out of your visit.
  • Readers with disabilities: you are encouraged to identify needs in advance of your visit, so that every effort can be made to assist you. Although the Library is located on the first floor, it is accessible by wheelchair.
  • Please ensure you are aware of the reader rules.
  • New readers will be asked to register and produce proof of address and photographic identification, such as a passport. To save time, you can download our registration form and bring it with you.

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