National Marine Biological Library

Our National Marine Biological Library (NMBL) is one of the largest marine reference libraries in the world. Our members can enjoy a peaceful environment and make full use of our collections and modern facilities.

The NMBL holds thousands of scientific journal titles and books, historical literature and expedition reports.

MBA Members can make full use of the print journal collections, books and facilities, including available electronic journal access, in-house. Library access for Members is by appointment only.

Library access

Library access for Members is by appointment only.

The library is normally open Monday-Thursday 0900-1700. To check availability and book a visit to the library please contact the Library.

Members are no longer required to provide a membership card for access. Simply show your active MyMBA dashboard to reception when you arrive for your Library booking.

Online access to NMBL

If you are not able to visit our Library Members can still access the resources. Any paper journal or article held in our Library can be scanned and supplied by email to Members for personal use.

The full online catalogue of publications held on site is available to search.

Please complete the copyright form and email this along with your request to nmbl@mba.ac.uk.

Rare books library

Rare and archived books are available to reference, in the Library, by prior appointment only. Please contact the Library to arrange this.