Using Special Collections

Find essential information about our Special Collections Reading Room opening hours, membership process, how to book a reading room appointment and order material, and practical advice for your visit.

Everyone is welcome to join the library and make use of the special collections material.

If you are a current SOAS student, staff member, or external user with a valid library card, you can book reading room appointments using your existing library membership.

If you do not have an up-to-date library membership and are not eligible for other forms of library membership, we offer free special collections membership. To apply, please fill out an application form and we will arrange an appointment for you to collect your new ID card when it is ready.

As of 27 November 2025, reading room bookings should be made through the archives catalogue. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we transition to this new system. Should you require assistance, please look at our help pages or contact us by email.  

You may order up to three boxes or volumes of material in advance of your visit. This is done through the archives catalogue. Sign in with your SOAS Library account, go to the bookings tab and book an appointment—you will then be able to add your materials. You must book a minimum of 24 hours in advance.  

On the day of your visit, retrievals will take place at 11:00am and 2:00pm. Up to three additional boxes or volumes can be requested per retrieval. These orders should also be placed through the archives catalogue.  

If you would like us to hold any of the ordered material for a future booking, please let us know. If we do not receive any communication from you within one week, the material will be reshelved for the convenience of other researchers. 

The Special Collections Reading Room (room L66) is located on level F (lower-ground floor) of SOAS Library. When you arrive at the library, you can access the reading room via either the main staircase or Library Lift A.

To ensure the preservation of our unique and irreplaceable collections, we kindly request all visitors to observe the following rules while using the reading room:

• Use only pencils or electronic devices for note-taking.
• Store bags and coats in the lockers provided outside the reading room.
• Do not bring food or drinks (including bottled water) into the reading room.

We are committed to providing an accessible and inclusive environment for all our visitors. If you have any specific requirements or need assistance during your visit, please contact us in advance. 

The reading room is situated on the lower-ground floor (Library level F) and can be accessed via a staircase or Library Lift A.