National Art Library
One of the most stunning libraries London has to offer is the National Art Library, belonging to the Victorian and Albert Museum. If you are a fan of the fine and decorative arts, you will love this place, mainly as the museum hosts 5000 years of human creativity to explore in your study breaks. The library, however, is a place to see for itself, and you might just as well fall in love with the beautiful historical reading rooms. There are also many study rooms to access, and free Wi-Fi is provided. You can become a member for free and sign up online even before your first visit. The library is only a few minutes by foot from Hyde Park, and you can reach it by taking the Tube to South Kensington. Opening times are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 17.30-18.30pm.
British Library
Whatever you are looking for – this place will not disappoint you. The British Library hosts the world’s most extensive collection of books, journals, periodicals and sound recordings globally, making it a spectacular sight on its own. Another plus is its size; the 11 reading rooms on five floors with free Wi-Fi can be accessed by anyone with a membership (which you can get for free if you are a student and older than 18).
Suppose you’re looking for some additional inspiration, head down to the ground floor to look at some of the rarest pieces of writing histories, such as the Magna Carta or the original handwritten copy of Alice in Wonderland. The library is located near King’s Cross St. Pancras Station and is open to the public from 9.30 am to 8 pm on weekdays, with different hours for Saturdays and Sundays.
Teatulia
This place might be what you need if you love tea and don’t mind being around a few people. With its comfy armchairs and sofas, this cosy little library bar is perfect for sipping on a cup of one of their hand-picked Indian teas while you do your revisions. Its colourful art deco style interior might even help to get your creative juices flowing. Notice, however, that this place turns into a cocktail bar by evening, so better get there earlier in the day if you want to get some studying done! Teatulia opens every day from 10 am to 10 pm on Mondays to Saturdays and 7 pm on Sundays. You can find them easily by hopping on the Tube to Covent Garden.
Welcome Collection
This museum right next to Euston Square is a great place to expand your horizon academically and culturally. While being LSB’s favourite on the list, the library – which you can join for free – is located on the second floor. The other floors showcase a range of changing exhibitions you can explore in your study breaks. There is a reading room with free Wi-Fi and comfy chairs and sofas to use in the library, and you can book dedicated group study rooms if you prefer to study with your friends. Opening times are from 10 am till 4-8 pm, depending on the day, and it’s closed on Sundays.
National Poetry Library
For anyone who prefers a more modern decorum, the National Poetry Library at Southbank Centre might be just the place for you. Located near Waterloo Bridge and Embankment Station, this library owns the most extensive collection of modern public poetry you will ever see. There are study areas for you to use, or you can just lay and relax in one of the bean bags. Membership is entirely free, making it a perfect place to study for anyone. It is open from 11 am till 8 pm, except for Mondays.
Barbican Conservatory
If you’re looking for a little somethin’ special and like gazing at something other than your books while you’re on it, get yourself a table at the Barbican Conservatory near Barbican Station. It might not be the quietest place to study, but instead, you will be surrounded by palm trees and exotic plans. According to studies, the colour green helps you focus and keep a long-term concentration. Unfortunately, it only opens on Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm at the moment, so it might just get a bit busy!
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