The Wiener Holocaust Library is a research library and museum at 29 Russell Square in London, with exhibitions on the Holocaust and its wider history. Its collection includes letters from victims, photographs, books and anti-Nazi materials, including propaganda concealed in everyday objects. Exhibitions also address less-covered histories, including the persecution of Roma people and the experiences of people who came to England. The exhibition space is compact, so you can focus on the displays without needing a full day. Check the library’s website for current exhibitions and events.
Founded to document Nazi persecution
Dr Alfred Wiener founded the library in 1933 to keep Jewish communities informed about Nazi persecution. After the Second World War, it developed into a research institute and a library open to the public. It is described as the oldest organisation devoted to Holocaust study.
The library opened in London on the day Germany invaded Poland. Its work has since expanded to document fascism and resistance to it.
Books, photographs and hidden propaganda
The collection includes around 70,000 books, 45,000 photographs, 3,000 periodicals and 2,000 documents. The archive also holds letters from Holocaust victims and anti-Nazi propaganda hidden inside everyday items, including tomato seed packets.
Public exhibitions explore different aspects of Holocaust history. Check the library’s website for details of what is on during your visit.
Häufige Fragen
Where is the Wiener Holocaust Library?
It is at 29 Russell Square, London, WC1B 5DP.
When was the library founded?
Dr Alfred Wiener founded it in 1933 to inform Jewish communities about Nazi persecution.
Is there a public exhibition?
The library usually has a free public exhibition. Check its website for current exhibition and event details.
When is the library open?
It is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 5 pm, and closed on weekends.
