The RIBA British Architectural Library is the largest and most comprehensive resource in the United Kingdom for research and information on all aspects of architecture. It is one of the finest collections of architectural material in the world.

Established in 1834, as part of the newly-founded Royal Institute of British Architects, the Library collections are extensive, and comprise the Sir Banister Fletcher Library of books and periodicals, the drawing and archives collection and the photographs collection. 
 
A wide spectrum of subjects, ranging from prehistory to the present, is encompassed by the collections, which are international in scope. In addition to architectural theory, practise and history there is material on allied subjects such as building and construction, civil engineering, structural engineering, landscape architecture, interior design and decoration, the decorative arts, town and country planning, and construction law.
 
The Library is supported by the RIBA and does not receive direct funding from central government. Nevertheless, the collections and services are available to all.
 
Some Library highlights
V&A + RIBA Architecture Partnership| The V&A + RIBA Architecture Partnership is the name given to the initiative of the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Royal Institute of British Architects to promote the understanding and enjoyment of architecture.
 
Together the V&A and the RIBA have opened the Architecture Gallery, the first permanent gallery of its type in the UK, and new study rooms at the V&A. 
 
Early Printed Books 1478-1840: a catalogue of the British Architectural Library Early Imprints Collection 
Winner of the Besterman/McColvin Medal for an outstanding work of reference: printed category. Paul Nash, compiler and editor, won the Walford Award, for an individual who has made a sustained contribution to bibliography. The awards are organised and administered by CILIP: the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals and sponsored by Nielsen BookData.
 
Directory of British Architects 1834-1914
An updated and expanded edition of the definitive biographical reference tool for the Victorian and Edwardian periods.
Compiled by staff of the British Architectural Library, Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA): Antonia Brodie, Alison Felstead, Jonathan Franklin, Leslie Pinfield and Jane Oldfield; Foreword by Mark Girouard
 
More than 11,000 British architects working between 1834 and 1914 are included in this directory. Its scope extends beyond members of the Royal Institute of British Architects to cover all those who practised architecture in Great Britain during the period, as well as many who practised in the former colonies and other parts of the world.
London: Continuum|, May 2001. 2 volumes (2,248 pages). ISBN 08264 49638 set of 2 vols. $660.00/£400.00