Lambeth Palace Library is the historic library of the Archbishops of Canterbury. The vision of Lambeth Palace Library is to collect, preserve and make accessible the memory of the Church of England, so that its cultural and religious history can be explored and enjoyed by all.

Archive Description

Lambeth Palace Library’s archives are broadly religious with a strong element of institutional corporate records. The library holds a large and varied collection including manuscripts, Archbishops’ archives, records of the central institutions of the Church, archives of churchmen and societies, and printed books.

Much of the Jewish-related archival material held focuses on the interface between the Church of England and Judaism, and can be found in the Archbishop Papers, papers of other bishops/churchmen/societies, and manuscripts.

Online Accessibility

An online catalogue for Lambeth Palace Library’s collections can be found here.

The Library also has a research guide to its Jewish holdings available here.

Digital Accessibility

Over 30,000 images and fully digitised volumes from Lambeth Palace Library collections can be viewed online.

Access Information

Access to the Library’s collections is freely available to the public. We strongly recommend that readers book an appointment at least two days in advance of any visit.

On their first visit, users must register as a reader. Registration is valid for two years and allows access to all classes of material, with the exception of some restricted material.

Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am -5pm, Tuesday 11am-5pm, Thursday 10am-7.15pm

Check website for dates of closure and detailed information regarding ID requirements, Reading Room rules, order limits, fetching times, restricted material, and facilities.

Enquiries can be made by email to archives@churchofengland.org

Street Address

Lambeth Palace Library
15 Lambeth Palace Road
London, SE1 7JT