British Library Map Section

Tuesday, 16 May, 2006

I visited the British Library (nice URL!) in London last week, which is next door to the magnificent architecture of St Pancras (aka where Harry Potter departs for Hogwarts). I have to admit at being amazed at the architecture and impressed at the feeling of space that gives this building the feeling of a true civic amenity. It obviously has books (and maps), however it is intended to be far more than that. Conference arena, meeting space, leisure space, coffee shop, book shop, work space and more. In fact, I gather it is the busiest wifi hotspot in London; a credit to the truly peaceful and reflective nature of the location.

Anyway, I was on a visit to look at some old geological maps (circa. 1880). You have to apply for a readers pass first (and carry the requisite ID). This in itself was simplicity and efficiency. Enter your details on a public PC, note down the reference number and then wander the 20 yards in to the membership area to have your ID checked, photo taken and card printed. A process that took 10 minutes in total. Service as it should be!

Every member of staff I spoke to was jovial and helpful and, after depositing my belongings in the locker room, went to the map section. You have to pass through security first and then are in a map library. All maps that are in storage (the majority of them) have to be ordered. Yet again this is efficient; log in to a public access PC, search for the map you want, select it and order it. You get an estimate of the delivery time (normally about an hour) and go and collect it. The beauty of this system is that you can order the maps for any date you wish meaning that you can log in to the system from home, order your maps for the following day and come and collect them at a convenient time. Wonderful. So a big thumbs up to the insitution and the staff that work there.