Skip to Content

Pages about: Library of the Religious Society of Friends

About the Library

In June 1708 bookseller John Bagford, in an account of libraries in London for the Monthly Miscellany, remarked “The Quakers have been some years collecting a Library, but where it is erected I have not learned.” This was not surprising, since though the Society of Friends had been collecting books since 1673, the collection had no permanent home for many years  - and it was not until 1926 when Friends House was constructed that the Society finally had a purpos…(read more)

Library uncovers unique works

Cataloguing work on the printed collections at the Library of the Society of Friends has revealed many more books and pamphlets than previously thought to be unique to the Society’s Library.…(read more)

The Library

Welcome to the Library of the Religious Society of Friends

The Library is one of the largest collections in the world relating to Quakers and their activities. It is an inspiring resource for understanding peace, prison reform, humanitarian assistance, and the anti-slavery movement as well as Quaker history, faith, thought and practice.

It is free and open to everyone. 

 …(read more)

Visiting the Library

Quakers and non-Quakers from all around the world use the Library - all are welcome. In January 2007 the Library  introduced a registration system. All users will have to complete a Reader Registration Form [PDF : 41.8kb- new window] on their first visit to the Library.…(read more)