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The Upper Library of the Geological Society of London, tables and chairs on a maroon carpet surrounded by book-lined shelves and green pillars

Visiting the Library

We are open Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-5pm

The Library is located in Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BG 

Burlington House is open Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-5pm. It is not necessary for members to make an appointment, however if making a special trip or if there is specific material you require we recommend letting us know you are coming in advance.

Non-members and Archive visitors must make an appointment.

Please email library@geolsoc.org.uk

The Upper Library of the Geological Society of London, taken from an upstairs gallery looking down at table and chairs on a maroon carpet surrounded by book-lined shelves. Two bright glass chandeliers hang above the library.

Who can Visit the Library?

Geological Society Members:

  • Fellows and Student Members
  • Employees of Corporate Patron companies (proof of employment required)
  • Friends of the Geological Society

Members of the following organisations (proof of membership required):

  • Courtyard Societies (Linnean Society, Royal Academy of Arts, Royal Astronomical Society, Royal Society of Chemistry, Society of Antiquaries)
  • AAPG
  • Geological Association of Canada
  • Geological Society of America
  • Institute of Geologists of Ireland
  • Institution of Materials Mining and Metallurgy
  • Mineralogical Society of Great Britain and Ireland

Non-members

The Library's collections can be consulted by non-members for a charge of £25 per day (£15 after 1pm). Concessions (Students/Retired/Unwaged): £10.00. Please email library@geolsoc.org.uk for more information.

Become a Friend of the Society for £54 a year and enjoy unlimited access to the Library - find out more

Lyell Room at the Geological Society: a round table with a laptop and chair, in a green painted room with sunlight streaming in.

What you'll find

  • Comfortable and quiet study space
  • Extensive collections for browsing
  • Scanning and copying facilities
  • GeoRef database
  • Staff assistance
  • The Map Room
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Tea & Coffee

Using the Archives

The Archivist is available to welcome researchers who wish to consult the archive collections, including non-members (free of charge).

Please email archivist@geolsoc.org.uk for further details.

Visiting the William Smith map

William Smith's 1815 geological map is displayed in the Society's entrance hall and can be viewed Tuesday-Thursday, 9.30am-5pm.Please enquire at Reception. No appointment is necessary. Find out more