Overview

Illustration from a children's book showing a red train engine on the tracks, passing through the countryside

This collection was formed with the aim of preserving children’s books for the purpose of study and research. It numbers around 10,000 items and ranges in date from the 19th century to the present day. The collection provides examples of book illustration, design and original bindings, and reflects changing attitudes to children and childhood.

Strengths of the collection include Edwardian boys’ adventure stories and stories for girls, and Victorian children’s periodicals. There are a substantial number of picture books dating from the 1970s to the present day.

Image: ‘The Story of the Little Red Engine’ written by Diana Ross and illustrated by Leslie Wood. Faber and Faber, 1945. © Estate of Leslie Wood.

Search the Collection

Search the Children's Books Collection

Access the collection

Photography and Copyright

You can photograph our collections for personal study and research only. Just ask for a Photography Permission Form when you visit.

If you’re not able to visit us in person, we may be able to send you a scan or photograph of the item instead.

Contact us if you need an image for use in social media, print or online publication, or commercial purposes.

Get in touch

Staff helping a student at the Helpdesk

Get in touch

If you have any questions about our collections and archives, our friendly team will be able to help. Visit the Contact us page for ways to get in touch.

Other collections you may like