Library and information services

1901: The library was founded by the British Optical Association (BOA).

1912: Private collections were added to the library from Dr R S Clay, A W Oxbrow, and J H Sutcliffe.

1926: The Carnegie Trust offered £1,000 to expand the collection, provided members could match the donation. The library, based at Clifford's Inn Hall, was then opened to the public.

1932: The first library catalogue was printed and the first librarian employed.  

1934: BOA moved to Brook Street.

1945: A collection of books on morality and ethics was created in honour of Sir Alexander Carr-Saunders, who supported the recognition of optometry as a specialist profession in its own right.

1968: £12,000 was donated by Past President Neville Chappell to expand the library further.   

1980: The BOA was disbanded. The British Optical Association Library was inherited by The College of Optometrists and moved to Earl's Court.

1997: The Library moved to Craven Street, at Charing Cross. 

The College library continues to grow and now provides research, CPD and clinical practice support for a generation of eye health professionals.