The Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers) is the UK's learned society and professional body for geography. Their aim is to advance geography and support geographers in the UK and across the world. The Geographical Society of London was founded in 1830 as an institution to promote the advancement of geographical science. Under the patronage of King William IV, they later became known as The Royal Geographical Society and their Royal Charter was granted under Queen Victoria in 1859. In 1912 they bought, and in 1913 moved to, the Society's current home in Kensington, London. The Charles Close Society is in partnership with the RGS to cross-promote not only cartography and cartographic history, but also the history of the Ordnance Survey and the maps produced by them. This includes the surveying involved, collecting, research and curating or ordnance survey maps. 
THE FOYLE READING ROOM With our partnership with the RGS, members of the Society may consult maps and associated records in the Foyle Reading Room at 1 Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AR. This privilege is available without charge to those who are undertaking research for publication in Sheetlines or a learned society’s journal. Otherwise a daily charge of £10 is payable by members of the general public. Readers should come to the new main entrance of the RGS at the top of Exhibition Road. Opening hours are normally from 10:00 to 17:00 Monday to Friday. They should present their CCS membership card and other evidence of identity and for preference bring a letter explaining what research is being done. It is advisable to telephone 020 7591 3000 in advance to make an appointment.