Main Library to close from 4pm on 10–13 February 2026

From 10–13 February, the Main Quad will be the venue for UCL Illuminated, a spectacular sound and light show to launch a year of celebrations for UCL’s bicentenary.

The university is expecting to welcome thousands of people into the Quad and adjoining buildings for these events. To ensure that safety and security are maintained, buildings and areas leading directly onto the Quad will be closed from 4pm on these days, including the Main Library.

The ground floor and mezzanine floors of the Student Centre will also be closed. Staff and students will still be able to access upper floors via the lifts on the ground floor.

Signs will be displayed well in advance to warn building users about the closures.

Find an alternative study space

Use our Find Your Favourite Library tool to help you find alternative library or study space and understand the facilities that are available. You can also check the opening hours and how many spaces are currently available.

Window coverings

The Main Library will also have temporary window coverings on windows overlooking the Quad from Sunday 08 February to Saturday 15 February. These coverings cannot be removed during this time and can only be installed and removed by professional contractors.

UCL Illuminated

With ticketed showings on 11, 12 and 13 February 2026, UCL Illuminated will see the Wilkins Building and newly remodelled Quad brought to life with cutting-edge 3D projection mapping, light, music, storytelling and animation.

Marking the beginning of the bicentenary celebrations, the show will tell the story of UCL’s 200-year history, from a small community of intellectuals on the city’s edge to the global powerhouse of science, arts and humanities it is today.

Thank you for your patience, cooperation and understanding as UCL prepares for this major moment in its history.