Arts & Images

From the beautiful to the bizarre, explore the many ways in which visual images communicate ideas.

In this section...
Mapping Ideas

Mapping History

Journey to bizarre lands and discover that there is often more to a map than meets the eye - these maps tell strange and fascinating tales.
Enter Mapping History

Why Write?

Why Write?

Trace the history of the written word, and find an amazing mixture of marks, symbols, drawings and signs.
Enter Why Write?

Bodies of Knowledge

Bodies of Knowledge

From cabinets of curiosity to x-ray machines, these beautiful images of the body reveal the thoughts of different cultures throughout history.
Enter Bodies of Knowledge

Sacred Book

Sacred Book

Make your own artist's book, drawing inspiration from the 8th century manuscript, The Lindisfarne Gospels.
Enter Sacred Book

Learning news

Taking Liberties Private View

Teachers are invited to a private view of the British Library's upcoming exhibition, Taking Liberties: the struggle for Britain's freedoms and rights.

Have Your Say

A competition for local children, celebrating 10 years of the British Library at St Pancras.