Research & Collections

Research & Collections: Where Discovery Happens

We are building a new Research & Collections Centre including London’s first dedicated Shakespeare Library, free and open-to-all. The centre will offer unparalleled activities and experiences redefining how students, researchers, artists, and the public engage with Shakespeare and performance-based research.

We need your support to help us complete this build, and open up Research & Collections at Shakespeare’s Globe.

Whether you name a seat, donate, or offer a transformative philanthropic gift, your support will open the doors to our world-class collections and renowned research programme – breaking down barriers and inspiring generations to come.

All donations towards Research & Collections will be doubled thanks to a generous anonymous donor who will match gifts from our public fundraising appeal.

Name A Seat

Architects mock-up image of how the new Nancy Knowles theatre will look, with red seating on the left-hand side and a lectern on the right

Have you shared a magical moment at Shakespeare’s Globe? Whether it was a first visit, a memorable performance, or a quiet moment of discovery in our archives – dedicate a seat at the Research & Collections Centre in your name, or in honour of someone special.

Dedicating a seat is a unique and lasting way to mark a milestone, remember a loved one, or simply celebrate your passion for theatre and history. Your dedication helps support the Globe’s mission to make Shakespeare accessible to all.

Whether it’s a heartfelt gift, a tribute to a friend, or a meaningful gesture in your own name, a dedicated seat is a powerful way to show your support and keep the stories of the Globe alive.

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Make A Donation

Architects mock-up image of how the new reading room will look, including wide spaces for wheelchair access, generous reading desks for viewing Collections items, and ample shelving with lots of books

Together, we can keep Shakespeare’s stories alive. Your donation ensures that our collections and trailblazing academic research will be available to everyone, for free.

Use the button below to donate an amount of your choice. Any gift, regardless of the size, is hugely appreciated.

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The Impact Of Your Support

Our archive and collections don’t just hold history – they empower future scholars, deepening understanding of performance, and preserving voices from every corner of Shakespeare’s world. From Research in Action workshops to Shakespeare and Race programming, your donation helps to make our work accessible to everyone.

Dr Oliver, who has a beard and is wearing a blue tshirt, laughs happily on the left of the image. On the right, text reads
Maria, who has blonde hair and is wearing a red jumper, smiles on the left of the image. On the right, text reads

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more about making a donation to Research & Collections, including philanthropic naming opportunities, please contact Jessica Lowery, Head of Individual Giving.

Portrait photographer: Helen Murray
Art direction: Alexandria Vernon & Kim Garrity