About the Collections

The Society holds one of the world’s pre-eminent geographical collections.

Around two million items strong, the Collections provide an unparalleled resource tracing 500 years of geographical discovery and research.

Generously supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and others, we are now able to:

• Preserve the Collections for the benefit of future generations
• Provide public access to our materials
• Promote Collections-related educational programmes for schools and life-long learners

The Society has also been awarded Designated Status for our Collections in their entirety by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA).

This scheme 'aims to identify and celebrate the pre-eminent collections of national and international importance held in England’s non-national museums, libraries and archives'.

The Society's Collections, associated exhibitions and curatorial work of the photographic library are supported by Rolex.