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What's included in the online catalogue?

Archive collection

You can use the online catalogue to search for:

• the national archives of Quakers in Britain
• archives of London and Middlesex Quakers
• archives of Quaker organisations that are not officially part of Britain Yearly Meeting, such as Friends Ambulance Unit or Friends Temperance & Moral Welfare Union
• over 1000 manuscript collections and personal papers of Quakers and Quaker families, such as the diaries of Elizabeth Fry

Library collection

You can use the online catalogue to search for most of the printed material in the Library. It includes anti-slavery, peace and temperance material, all journals and newsletters, a growing number of articles and much more. Some records for 19th and early 20th century books, pamphlets and articles are still being added to the catalogue.

Harmful Language in Collections and Catalogue Records

The Library of the Society of Friends (LSF) holds collections spanning more than 350 years. These collections may contain ideas, images, and language which are offensive and harmful.

We are actively working to make our collections as accessible and inclusive as possible and to avoid perpetuating systemic discrimination in our collections management. We are committed to reviewing our catalogue data with the aim of ensuring all our catalogue descriptions, subject terms and finding aids use appropriate language. If you have any concerns about any collections or other issues, please contact us: library@quaker.org.uk / 020 7663 1035

If you encounter material in our collections which causes harm or distress, please talk to a member of staff. There are also resources under 'emotional support' on the Cultural Heritage Terminology Network website: https://culturalheritageterminology.co.uk/resources/#decolonisation-initiatives

Search tips

Look out for the question mark symbol when using the catalogue. These buttons bring up help text to guide your search. You can also read our Catalogue search tips above for more advice.

How to access the material

You are welcome to visit the Library to use our collections. For more information on how to register, book an appointment and order material, go to the Visit the library page.

Borrowing books

Although the Library's printed collection is mainly for reference, duplicate copies of modern books may be loaned to registered readers in the UK.

Check the catalogue record for the book's loan status: if it says “For loan", it is available to borrow.

Feedback

We welcome feedback on the catalogue or any other aspect of the Library's service. You can send us your comments and suggestions via the Contact us page.