The British Library is the national library of the United Kingdom and one of the largest libraries in the world. We are open to everyone and you can study in the Library for free, access our collections (with a Reader pass) or visit our building and exhibitions. We have many books, but we also have so much more - newspapers, sound recordings, patents, prints and drawings, maps and manuscripts. The Library is also home to some of the world’s most exciting, beautiful and significant books, maps and manuscripts. From the Magna Carta and Shakespeare to Florence Nightingale and Gandhi. Visit our website to find out more.