Folklore and customs collection

Learn about myths, legends and cultures

If you are interested in understanding cultures and traditions, or maybe find out more about the legend of King Arthur, then a visit to our folklore and customs collection can help.

Based in the Kensington Central Library, the archive is a truly remarkable collection with books published from over three centuries. The collection offers a sense of local culture, traditions and legends from across the globe.

Among the subjects covered are:

World culture and traditions
Dance, song, fable and games origins
World myths and legends
Gypsy and traveller folklore tradition and culture
History of etiquette and deportment
Religious traditions from across the world
Esoteric traditions and superstition
Feminist culture and history
Chivalric tradition
Arthurian legend
Arms and armoury traditions

In addition to books, the library also holds a selection of folklore journals including:

English Dance and Song
Folklore
Journal of American Folklore
Journal of the Folklore Institute

The Folklore and customs' collection is a useful collection for researchers, students and the casual enquirer.

Please note that most of the folklore collection is not in the public reference area. We are happy to assist you with enquires relating to folklore material and books can easily be retrieved from the collection.

Libraries