With world-class collections spanning more than 800 years, spread across three beautiful buildings equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, we have centuries of experience in helping our students and Fellows access the vital knowledge that underpins every big idea. From ancient archival records and medieval manuscripts to newly published articles and online resources, the Library offers everything you’ll need to thrive in your studies and research.
Our modern Working Library is one of the largest College libraries in Cambridge, and offers our students and researchers exclusive 24/7 access to 120,000 books, journals, maps and audio-visual items, as well as 150 study spaces, bookable meeting rooms, printing facilities and study skills support. Both the borrowable and reference collections are fully catalogued and searchable on iDiscover so you can track down the resources you need from anywhere in Cambridge or beyond.
The 17th-century Old Library houses our internationally renowned collections of medieval and post-medieval manuscripts, rare and early printed books, personal papers, photographs and artefacts, many of which relate to notable St John’s alumni (including Douglas Adams, Cecil Beaton, Samuel Butler, Thomas Clarkson, Paul Dirac, Fred Hoyle, William Wilberforce and William Wordsworth). The Upper Library itself is a fine example of Jacobean architecture, and is used as an exhibition space and to host school visits throughout the year.
The College Archives, housed in the stunning 12th-century School of Pythagoras Archive Centre, hold institutional records dating back to 1200 which document the growth and administration of St John’s and its related institutions. The Archives also provide a wealth of unique source material for historians of medieval Cambridge and those interested the College’s Foundress (and mother of King Henry VII) Lady Margaret Beaufort.
All three areas of the Library – the Working Library, Old Library and Archives – are set up to support students and researchers in the pursuit of knowledge and new ideas. Our team of expert and friendly staff are on hand to help you get the most out of your studies, whether that’s by locating the resources on your course reading list, or offering study skills sessions and classes on handling medieval documents. Whatever your area of research or subject of study, you’re sure to find something in the Library to inspire you.
