Shakespeare's Globe has opened a new Research and Collections Centre on its Bankside site, creating a permanent, purpose-built home for its extensive archives and what the theatre describes as London's only dedicated public Shakespeare library. The centre, which began accepting researcher appointments in late September 2026, offers free access to thousands of books, rare early modern texts, and a comprehensive archive of the Globe’s own productions.
The facility aims to serve a wide audience, from undergraduate academics and independent scholars to theatre practitioners and directors from around the world. While serious research requires a pre-booked appointment, the building also includes a public foyer with free temporary exhibitions. Dr. Will Tosh, who leads higher education and research at the Globe, extended a broad invitation, stating, "We want anyone with an interest to come and enjoy this space."
A Vision Fulfilled: Scholarship and Performance United
The opening of the Research and Collections Centre marks the fulfillment of a key part of founder Sam Wanamaker’s original vision for the Globe. His ambition was for the site to be not only a space for performance but also the world's "first point of reference for the study and appreciation of Shakespeare in Performance." The new centre centralizes collections that were previously housed in less suitable facilities, finally integrating the Globe's scholarly work with its theatrical mission on the Bankside campus.
This integration of study and stage is reflected in the centre's resources, which are designed to support both academic inquiry and the practical work of creating theatre. The Globe's research program focuses on contemporary issues, including social justice and inclusive storytelling, aiming to connect the historical materials with modern performance and scholarship. The centre's opening is timed with ongoing programming, such as the theatre's Shakespeare and Race Festival in October 2026, underscoring its role as a hub for current cultural and academic conversations.
