Looking back, looking forwards
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For research, inspiration
and enjoyment
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For research, inspiration and enjoyment
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Looking back, looking forwards
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It has without doubt been a rollercoaster of a year. One of triumphs but also extraordinary challenges. The summer marked our 50th anniversary, together with the launch of Knowledge Matters, our strategy for the next seven years.
Following the recent cyber-attack, which we’re continuing to recover from, our focus is now on safely restoring our services. Our CEO, Sir Roly Keating, has shared more information on this and our plans for the new year on our blog. We will continue to keep you informed and thank you for your patience at this difficult time.
We’d like to leave you with a retrospective of some of our favourite moments from the year. Happy holidays to you all and we wish you a wonderful 2024!
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Starting your year with a roar
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From Alexander the Great to Animals, our exhibitions this year gave just a snapshot into our vast collection. They didn’t just take place in London though. Regional versions of our Chinese and British exhibition were displayed in 63 public libraries across the UK. Right now, we’re welcoming you to our landmark show Fantasy: Realms of Imagination, and our free exhibition, Malorie Blackman: The Power of Stories.
We’re incredibly grateful to our exhibition sponsors and partners for helping us to make it all possible.
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Meet our newest collection items
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Our collection of over 170 million items grows by 8km every year – so what did we acquire in 2023? Latest additions include the earliest known recording of a UK live performance by The Beatles, the Shirley Williams archive and even a book of 18th-century cricket scorecards – all contributing to the diversity of our collection.
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Our imaging technology can often perform wonders. As was the case this year when we were able to uncover hidden passages from William Camden’s Annals about Queen Elizabeth I’s life – 400 years after her reign. Discover the details surrounding her excommunication by Pope Pius V and other famous episodes in her life.
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The Brontës shine in Leeds
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From al fresco Shakespeare to illuminated unicorns, we’ve connected with so many people while we explore a new home for the Library in Leeds.
This year thousands of people got to know Yorkshire’s most-loved literary family a little better in Becoming the Brontës, an exhibition co-curated by the Brontë Parsonage Museum, Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery and us.
Watch the captivating story behind the precious Brontë material we showcased.
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Last-minute gift inspiration
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From handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind creations, find some last-minute Christmas gift ideas from inspiring entrepreneurs who we’ve supported through our Business & IP Centre. Behind each item lies the hard work, dedication and passion of individuals who embarked on the journey of becoming a small business owner. By choosing these gifts, you’ll not only surprise your loved ones with something truly special, you’ll also be supporting and celebrating our entrepreneurs.
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With your support, our conservation appeal raised over £26,000 to help save the stories that shaped history.
It’s not too late to donate. A gift today will help us continue our vital conservation work.
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