The Seeley Historical Library is one of the largest and most important libraries dedicated to the study of history in the United Kingdom. Located within the Faculty of History at the University of Cambridge, it is a vital resource for students, academics, and researchers.
The library supports a wide range of historical disciplines, offering access to an extensive collection of materials covering topics from ancient to modern history, making it an indispensable part of the university’s academic life.
Visiting the Seeley Historical Library offers a window into the academic life of one of the world’s top history faculties. With its rich collection, modern facilities, and supportive environment for study, it remains a key resource for historians and researchers from Cambridge and beyond.
Facilities:
- Extensive collection: The Seeley Library holds over 100,000 volumes, including books, journals, and periodicals. It is especially strong in European, British, and American history, with substantial collections on world history, political thought, and social history.
- Reading rooms: Spacious reading areas are available for individual study, with access to the shelves directly, making it easy for students to find and consult materials.
- Computer and digital resources: The library provides access to numerous databases and digital archives, helping students and researchers access primary sources, e-books, and academic journals online.
- Quiet study spaces: There are designated areas for quiet study, offering students a peaceful environment to focus on their work.
- Library services: The staff at the Seeley Library provide research support, including advice on finding and using resources, interlibrary loans, and access to rare materials through other university libraries.
The library also collaborates with other history libraries and archives in Cambridge, providing students with seamless access to a wider network of historical resources.
Architecture and Facilities
The Seeley Historical Library is housed in a modern, purpose-built facility within the Sidgwick Site, an area of Cambridge that accommodates several of the university’s arts and humanities departments. The building was designed in the 1960s by architect Sir Hugh Casson, known for his innovative use of modernist design in university architecture. The library is a distinctive example of mid-20th century architecture, with a focus on functionality, light, and space.
The building’s design is open and airy, with large windows allowing natural light to flood the reading rooms. The interiors are designed with spacious reading areas, wide aisles, and open shelves, creating an environment conducive to both quiet study and collaborative research. The Seeley Library’s design reflects a modern approach to academic study, focusing on accessibility and ease of use.
Visiting Seeley Historical Library
The Seeley Historical Library is primarily intended for use by Cambridge students, faculty, and researchers, but it is open to the public for consultation purposes, especially for those conducting historical research. Visitors should be aware of the following when planning a visit:
- Opening Hours: The library is open Monday to Friday, and it typically has extended hours during the university term, with shorter hours outside of term time. It is advisable to check the library’s website or contact the library directly for the most up-to-date opening times.
- Access for Non-Cambridge Members: While the library prioritises use by members of the university, non-Cambridge visitors, such as external researchers or scholars, may request access. Visitors should contact the library in advance to arrange access and are advised to bring identification and details of their research focus.
- Facilities for Visitors: The library offers reading rooms and access to materials, but visitors cannot borrow books. However, they can request copies of articles or scans of materials under certain conditions.
- Using Digital Resources: The library provides access to several important digital collections, and Cambridge students can use these resources remotely. External visitors may need to consult with staff regarding temporary access to specific databases while on-site.
The Seeley Historical Library is located within the Sidgwick Site, which is easily accessible by foot or bicycle from the city centre. The site is home to various faculties, creating a lively and intellectually stimulating environment for visitors and students alike. The proximity to other important academic institutions, including the University Library and the Squire Law Library, makes the Seeley Library an ideal base for historians working on interdisciplinary topics.