Records of the Librarian

RA Collection: Archive

Archive context

Showing item 8 of 17 in this group

Reference code

RAA/LIB

Title

Records of the Librarian

Date

1815-1999

Level

Sub-fonds

Extent & medium

X

Historical Background

The office of Librarian was created in 1770. The first holder was Francis Hayman (1770-76). Only Academicians were eligible until 1920. In 1873, the term of office was limited to five years, but re-election was permitted. Laymen have been appointed since 1920 without limitation of tenure. The Library and Archive of the Royal Academy of Arts is composed of a British art reference collection; historic book collection; illustrated book collection; prints and drawings; the Royal Academy archive and photographic collections.