Manuscripts (handwritten documents) and archives (collections of documents created by an individual or an organisation) provide a unique window onto the past.

The Library holds large collections of manuscripts and archival documents from many parts of the world, including Britain, mainland Europe, Asia and Africa. Some date back more than two thousand years, while others were created much more recently.

We have digitised many of the manuscripts and archival documents in our care so that everyone can explore them online.

We also hold digital images from other archives, which have been created through theEndangered Archives Programme. This programme supports the digitisation of archives around the world that are in danger of destruction, neglect or physical deterioration.

Please note that some digitised items are currently unavailable as a result of a cyber-attack on the Library. We are working hard to put these back online as soon as possible.

Latest updates

View our digitised manuscripts and archives

Use ourArchives and Manuscripts Catalogue to discover and access the British Library's archives, manuscripts and visual arts collections.

To see all available digitised items, open the catalogue and select 'Digitised content' on the left-hand side, then choose 'Yes (available)'. You can also enter words in the search box or use the lists on the left-hand side to refine your search.