About the library

The Heythrop Library is a specialist collection of philosophy, theology and allied disciplines. The Library contains what is widely regarded as one of the largest and finest collections of theology in the UK and includes rare printed books and incunabula. There are around 213,000 volumes, on theology, philosophy, biblical studies, church history, spirituality, and allied subjects. The collection covers all the principal areas of theology and philosophy with a particular emphasis on works in the Catholic tradition. It is used both by students and by researchers and includes complete runs of periodicals some of which are unique in this country.

The Heythrop Library dates back to 1614 when the Jesuits founded their college in Leuven dedicated to the education of future Jesuit priests preparing for work in what was then the English mission.

Most recently, it was the library of Heythrop College, University of London. When the College closed in 2019, the Jesuits in Britain, who are its owners, remained committed to the upkeep and development of the collection both for the continued use of those training for ministry in the Catholic and other Christian churches and of the wider academic community. It also supports the studies of those engaged in programmes at the new London Jesuit Centre.

The Institute is part of the Senate House Libraries at the University of London. The Heythrop Library catalogue is available online.

Accessing materials

Can I see live document availability on Library Hub Discover? No.

Can I obtain items via inter-library loan? No - this library does not participate in the inter-library lending scheme.

Can I visit the library to view materials? Please see the Library's website for information on access. Special Collections: please note that all rare books are held at Campion Hall, University of Oxford. For enquiries relating to special collections, please contact Campion Hall Library directly.

Location

Browse all of the Heythrop Library's records in Library Hub Discover here.