Library FAQs

If you have a question which is not answered by any of the following please call us on 020 7957 5723 or email the Library >>

What resources are in the Library?

The Library collection concentrates on the last 30 years, with books, pamphlets, journals and press cuttings covering all aspects of international relations with a focus on security, defence, economics, politics, and the environment.

The Library has around 150,000 books and pamphlets and over 200 periodical titles - some hard copy, some online.

Where is the Library?

The Library is on the first floor of Chatham House, at 10 St James's Square, London, SW1Y 4LE. Map >>

What are the opening hours?

The Library is open from 10.00 - 17.30 Monday to Friday, with selected late opening to 18.30 if there is a Members Event. It is closed for occasional days around public holidays.

Can non-members of Chatham House use the Library?

Yes, but non-members will need to purchase a Reader's ticket. There are several choices: £10 for a day's access, £35 for a week and £75 for a month, £35 for a month for students. These tickets do not include borrowing rights. We recommend you make an appointment for your first visit.

What are the ground rules?

Visitors can make use of free coffee and tea facilities and Wifi access. The library offers informal areas where conversations can be held and mobile phones may be used. There is also a quiet study area where noise must be kept low and to a minimum, and mobile phones should be on silent or off.

Who can borrow books?

Members may borrow up to ten items for a period of four weeks. These items may be renewed once by email, in person, or by phone. After one renewal, you will be requested to return the books to the Library and any further renewals will be at the discretion of the Librarian.

Reference material may not be borrowed. Ticket holders may not borrow.

How long is the borrowing period?

Books and pamphlets are loaned for four weeks, but may be recalled after two weeks if requested by another member.

Items may be renewed for a further month providing they have not been reserved in the meantime. Further renewals are at the discretion of the Librarian.

What newspapers are in the Library?

All English broadsheet newspapers from Monday to Friday, and the weekend Financial Times. Plus a range of foreign newspapers, including El Pais, La Repubblica, the Wall Street Journal Europe, Le Monde, International Herald Tribune, and Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. Full list >>

What is the press cuttings collection?

This unique collection, compiled consistently by expert staff from leading European and American newspapers, began in 1924 to provide the resources for the annual Survey of International Affairs. The collection covers all aspects of international affairs and the material is arranged in annual sequences subdivided into geographic and subject sections.

The sections for 1924 to August 1939 (on microfilm) and 1972 to mid-1997 may be consulted in the Library; advance notice is required to view the boxes. The cuttings for September 1939 to 1971 are held at the British Library Newspaper Library.

Is there internet access?

There are four computers where the internet can be accessed free of charge. Wi-fi is also available.

Can I use my laptop in the Library?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own laptop and make use of the wi-fi but you will not be able to access some of the online resources or the printer. Electrical sockets are spaced at intervals in the floor.

What are the online resources?

There is access to a range of databases, including BBC Monitoring, the Financial Times, JSTOR, the Economist, and IBSS. Full listing >>

How do I search the catalogue?

The catalogue can be accessed via the Chatham House website, and key words can be searched. The online database contains all items in the Library published since 1990. Earlier publications may be found in the card catalogue.

What if the Library doesn't have the book or article I need?

The Library can borrow books or obtain articles for Chatham House members from the British Library, at a cost of £15 per item which must be paid on collection. This service is not available to non-members.

What is in the archives?

The archives comprise a range of documents, including meeting transcripts from 1920 onwards, photographs of Chatham House, selected correspondence, and study group and publications records.

Meetings transcripts are also available. Please contact the Library to discuss your research requirements.

Can I get access to the archives?

Yes, but access is by prior written application. Photocopies of meeting transcripts can be supplied on payment of the appropriate fees. Please contact the Library for more information.

Moore-Wilson Web Design London