Indian Institute Library

The Indian Institute Library is a research facility in Oxford holding more than 100,000 books focused on South Asia, Tibet, and Himalayan regions. The collection supports scholars studying these areas and forms part of the university's broader academic resources.

Founded in 1886 by Sir Monier Monier-Williams, the library was created to train British civil servants during colonial rule. This purpose shaped its initial focus and growth as an academic resource.

The collections here reflect how South Asian communities express themselves through language and storytelling. Walking through the shelves, you encounter works that shaped regional thinking and continue to matter to scholars today.

You need either to be a University of Oxford student or to obtain a reader's card through the Bodleian Library system to access the collections. Plan your visit ahead to arrange the necessary access if you are not affiliated with the university.

The original building features a gilded weathervane shaped like an elephant carrying a howdah, a striking reminder of Indo-British connections from the institution's founding era. This decorative detail sits atop the roof and catches the eye of those passing by.

Inception: 1886

GPS coordinates: 51.75510,-1.25510

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:04