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British Library

Italy

British Library

The official book depository of the United Kingdom, holding a copy of every book ever printed here, and a wide variety of periodicals. No less than 150 million items catalogued and there is an unimaginable 625 km of shelving! Visitors may not use the library itself unless they have proof of identity

, home address, and a genuine need to use a specific item, but there is a free "Treasures of the British Library" exhibition chronicling the history of the written and printed word and displaying some of the library's best known items, including two of the original manuscripts of the Magna Carta and Leonardo Da Vinci's notebook. Additionally there are temporary exhibitions on historical or literary subjects, which charge admission. Popular ones can be very crowded at weekends. In the central atrium stands the King's Library (the library of King George III) surrounded by a glass wall, so visitors can occasionally see librarians retrieving books for readers. Tours of the library building run M, W, F-Su and cost £6. Call to book. Note that large items of luggage are not permitted within the building and cannot be stored in the cloakroom.

Listen to the audio guide for British Library Free on WIP — starts by itself when you arrive, even with the screen off

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