This is a beautiful new facility, started in 1974 and finished in 1998.
The entry includes a large plaza with a striking statue of Newton.
On entering the library, we are asked to show the contents of our purses or backpacks, security measures one would expect in a national library. The first thing we noticed was a bench made to look like a giant book attached to a chain. The next thing that captured our attention was the fabulous "Turning Pages" display in the lobby. It's giant touch screen allows readers to look closely to the print of archival documents, to translate the script, and (most fun) digitally turn the pages! What a fun display. To learn more: http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/ttp/ttpbooks.html
The next striking feature is what our guide later told us is the huge book collection of King George III, which the king donated to the people of England with the stipulation that it be made available to all. It is beautifully displayed for the public in the center of the library within glass walls. We were surprised to learn that patrons can actually handle the items, which are retrieved by the staff and brought to specific reading rooms. Our guide showed us the postage stamp archives, also beautifully displayed in pull-out cases. We were then given a special tour of the inner workings of the library where we saw their delivery system in progress. The library maintains a goal of service that processes a readers card within 20 minutes and a requested item within 70 minutes of the reservation. We were taken on a tour of the reading rooms, shown the world's largest atlas (!) and then invited to explore the exhibit halls. I did ask our guide why it is so hard to find marc records for British publications (meaning we do lots of original cataloging when purchasing British books). He explained that the records are available but at a cost. ----I guess I'll be doing more original cataloging!
The Treasures of the British Library (also called the Sir John Ritblat Gallery) are treasures indeed. It houses the Magna Carta, a Gutenberg Bible, several original manuscripts by famous British authors, and original scores by famous composers (to name just a few of the items). The library's special exhibit was called The Sacred, a display of ancient artifacts from the Hebrew, Christian and Islamic religions that emphasize the common threads running through all three faiths as well as their shared heritage.
I loved these exhibits, but there was so much to see. I plan on returning to get a reader's card and to take in more of the artifacts. Of course, several of us supported the library by having lunch there and shopping at the gift shop. :-)
British Library website: http://www.bl.uk/
We were given the afternoon to explore London, so Edie and I decided to go over to Victoria and Albert museum to find a Beatrix Potter display. The display was actually a photography exhibit of photos Potter's father had taken of the family, but it revealed her private side and the family love of photography. I also found a Kate Greenaway illustration on display, which I hope will help with my long paper of British children's awards.
Edie and I also decided that we just HAD to see Harrod's so we worked that in as well. Not so impressive. Huge, like the prices on each item, and elegant but still giving off "tacky" vibes. It was kind of weird, especially when we happened upon the statue erected in tribute to Dodi Fayed and Lady Diana. Though I can appreciate the sentiment and sympathize with the owner's grief, the monument is in really bad taste. I would show a picture, but I think you would have to see it to believe it.
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