Using this index
You can look for what is in the archive using the ‘Search the index’ function. Case file records contain all the items related to an individual’s application. In the results case file records appear above the items they contain and are marked with blue. You can click through to obtain further details of the author and a full list of what is in the case file.
Individual documents are marked green in the results. These entries for individual items allow users to locate items relating to individuals who did not apply directly but who wrote in support of applicants or who were involved in the Fund’s administration. For example, while Charles Dickens never applied, he was extensively involved, serving on the Committee in the 1830s and 40s before falling out with other members during the 1850s.
In all cases the British Library Reference needed to order items is provided.
Accessing the archive
The material in the archive can be viewed in the Manuscripts Reading Room at the British Library in London; you need to have a reader’s pass to access it (we cannot digitise the archive and make the contents available online for copyright reasons):
You can request the material directly on site or order in advance using the online archives catalogue:
Requesting archive material at the British Library
The reference number for case files and items on this site can be entered into the British Library catalogue to locate relevant materials. It is best to order case files rather than items: for example, to view Ezra Pound’s supporting letter for James Joyce’s application (Loan 96 RLF 1/2990/11), request Joyce’s entire case file (Loan 96 RLF 1/2990).
Material outside this index
The Library holds extensive RLF materials beyond the case files indexed on this site. Please consult the library.
If you notice any errors or omissions in our archive data, please send corrections to archive@rlf.org.uk. Thank-you.