Heythrop Library

“I’ve been a member of the Heythrop Library at the London Jesuit Centre for a couple of years now. At the Cathedral in my home town I study, and undertake courses in, theology in my retirement including New Testament Greek.The library is particularly useful for borrowing books to take away and study at leisure as well as on site. It is a lovely peaceful space and the librarians are most helpful and welcoming. They let me know when offsite books I have ordered arrive and I come in to pick them up.

I consider it well worth the membership fee when I happen not to be
undertaking a course at the Centre.”

Retired solicitor and theology student, March 2023

“One of the joys of preparing for the priesthood was the formation in the
intellectual life and the access to some wonderful libraries, at seminary and
Heythrop.

The amazing collection of Philosophy, Theology and Scripture volumes, not to mention their journals, allowed the pursuit of all kinds of questions that arose in faith and life to one’s satisfaction. While one might no longer have such time at disposal as a priest, the questions only increase – and quick access to such material becomes even more essential.

Sadly, the few specialist Catholic academic libraries open to the public in the UK have all dried up over the years.

Which is why I was delighted that the British Jesuits had made the Heythrop
Library accessible to the public and generously made space for it at Farm
Street, in the heart of London.

The Church in the UK and all those interested in Philosophy and Theology
owe them a collective debt of gratitude.”

Fr. Rajiv Michael, March 2023

“I have recently found that in the area of philosophy you have a very deep collection off site but easily accessible within a day or two. […] The journal list is extremely impressive and the facility of the Library Reading room is excellent. As legal philosophy is my speciality the Library is especially valuable in having a good foreign language holding. Also you seem to have something of a budget and can make key ordering of books when requested. […] It is surprising to have such a tranquil facility in the most expensive center of an extremely hectic city.”

Prof. Anthony Carty, March 2023

“The Jisc Library Hub led me to the Heythrop. Sometimes the Heythrop alone held a volume I wanted to consult, and often it was the only holding library readily accessible to me.

From the start, I was made to feel welcome. The small team provides an unfailingly personal and helpful service, always ready to do whatever possible to help me gain access to an article or book. The collection is tremendous, the catalogue and request system easy to use, and borrowing books couldn’t be simpler. Communications by email and in person have always been efficient and friendly.

The modest fee for membership justified itself in no time at all, and the reading room is a great spot in Mayfair for quiet study and reflection. A wonderful resource!”

David Smith, retired teacher, March 2023

“I use this library first of all as a safe space to gather my learning at the end of a day on the course. It is beautifully laid out so as to invite study, reading or even contemplating a day’s study. I request books to support my study and if I cannot find them Clemens and Naomi are so very helpful . The stock is updated regularly and our book lists are taken into account.

It is also a place where I am known by name and valued. Clemens and Naomi are welcoming and hospitable as well as very knowledgeable on the resources that I need. Nothing is too much trouble.

When my course finishes, I intend to remain a member.

A simply wonderful resource.

Thank you.”

Ignatian Spirituality Course (ISC) student, May 2023

“This library is a wonderful resource.

Its range of books is really impressive. I have found the academic biblical commentaries have been especially useful. This library provides a great opportunity to develop one’s knowledge of the scriptures and general theology.

The atmosphere is both friendly and peaceful - ideal for reading, studying and reflecting.

This library is a great and valued gift in the heart of London.”

Fr Jonathan Stogdon, a priest of Westminster Archdiocese, May 2023