Winnie Cao talks to Jamie Andrews, Head of Culture and Learning at The British Library

Chinese communities have been calling the UK home for much longer than many realise. Many are able to trace their heritage to regions across East and Southeast Asia, which has led to a rich and diverse culture across the UK. At this new free display at the British Library the exhibition reflects on this long history through photographs, manuscripts and interviews with those who have lived through it.

Meet remarkable individuals from British Chinese communities across the UK. Listen to personal accounts of merchant seamen. Get to know the local business owners who set up Europe’s first Chinatowns. Be inspired by the scientists, artists and writers breaking new ground. And uncover the challenges that British Chinese people have encountered through the centuries, and continue to face today.

Join us to celebrate the history and impact of this vibrant community, and to understand what it really means to be Chinese and British. Public libraries will be hosting the Chinese and British exhibition across the UK through a series of displays simultaneously opening in over 30 towns and cities, from Aberdeen and Exeter to Bournemouth and Belfast, via the Living Knowledge Network. A programme of in-person and online events inspired by the exhibition will also showcase the rich history of Chinese British communities across the UK.

Please note the exhibition is now closed.