The Library includes monographs, maps, journals, magazines and more. The collection forms a unique repository of books on military history with a strong emphasis on nineteenth and twentieth century works. You can search what is available using the online catalogue.
We have produced an online guide to help you search for and locate books using the online catalogue.
Rare and Special Books
Our Rare Books collection dates from 1700 and consists of of over 600 pre-1821 books and pamphlets and other items of note. The collection includes Lord Radstock's extensive collection of Naval pamphlets donated by his widow Esther Lady Radstock.
The collection includes statutes, history books, engineering and training guides, political and pamphlets. All our Rare Books are fully catalogued and can be available to see on site by appointment.
RUSI Archive and Special Collections
The RUSI Archive consists of documents and manuscripts relating to the creation and running of the Institute which includes council minutes and some membership records.
Our special collections include photographs, cuttings books, diaries and newspapers relating to military events or members of the Institute.
We also have Captain Lionel Challis's 'Peninsular Roll Call' which records the service records of every Army Officer who service in the Peninsular War between 1808 and 1814. A digital version is available for study.
Paintings, Prints and Sculpture
The RUSI building on Whitehall is home to a collection of paintings and sculpture that reflect the history of the institute and military history more widely.