SOAS University of London

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Welcome to Special Collections, SOAS Library

Here you can consult archives, manuscripts, photographs, maps, audio-visual material, rare books and SOAS PhD theses relating to Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Broadly speaking, our collections reflect the British interaction with Africa and Asia over the last 250 years, and include archives of missionary societies, NGOs and campaign groups, and business organisations, as well as papers of individuals, including diplomats, campaigners, and academics.

Search the SOAS Archive Catalogue

Search for archives, manuscripts, and other primary source material held by SOAS Library

Opening Hours

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 09.00 - 17.00
Closed: Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays
Please note: The Special Collections Reading Room will be closed: Monday 23rd to Friday 27th September 2019 (SOAS Welcome Week)

Contact Details

Telephone: +44(0)20 7898 4180
Email: special.collections@soas.ac.uk

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Please see our Customer Charter and Library Performance Indicator for more information.