How to access the Reading Room
Any member of the public can access the Reading Room of the National Archives. You must be over the age of 16, have a valid reader’s ticket and sign the attendance book each day.
Accessibility
If you have accessibility or additional requirements contact our Access Officers in advance of your visit.
Facilities for researchers
- Free lockers for your personal belongings
- Free wi-fi
- Power points are at all tables
- Water coolers in the reading room foyer and locker room
- Some personal computers are available for researchers
Finding aids
A finding aid is a catalogue written by archivists to help researchers see what records a collection contains. You can search for finding aids to new additions in our printed catalogue and online. Older material may not be online and must be searched for in physical finding aids or card indices in the Reading Room.
When using catalogues and finding aids:
- Do not write on them or mark them.
- Use the cushions provided to support the spines.
- Replace them on the shelves when you have finished.
Microfilm and microfiche readers
Traditional microfilm readers, a microfiche reader, microfilm printers and scan-pros are all available in the reading room. These facilitate access to archives only available on microfilm.
If you have questions about the finding aids or microfilm readers ask the archivist on duty.
Rules for readers
All visitors to the National Archives must sign the rules for readers when applying for a reader’s ticket. These rules ensure a comfortable working environment for all researchers and the preservation of original documents.
What you can bring
Items that could damage the archives are not permitted in the Reading Room.
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When in the Reading Room
You should observe silence except when consulting a member of staff. Please treat fellow readers with courtesy and respect.
Ordering records
Most of our records are stored on-site and can be ordered on the day of your visit to the Reading Room. Archives stored off-site can be ordered in advance of your visit.
Handling archives
Archives are fragile and you must treat them with respect.
Returning records and holding them over
After you finish using the records, return them to the Returns desk, where each document will be logged upon return.
If you need documents on additional days, you can request a hold-out. Complete the necessary form, and the items will be reserved for you until the specified hold-out date. After that date, the items will be returned to the repository.
Digital photography
- You may take digital images for private research
- You must sign a permission form in advance
- Phones must remain in aeroplane mode
Confidential records
You may need to sign a Data Protection Form if you are looking at personal information. Please contact the duty archivist.
Copyright
Archives may be subject to copyright. You will need to apply for permission if you want to publish or reproduce any archives.
Getting help
Our Reading Room staff can help you with your general research questions. They can:
- provide access to finding aids
- help locate the correct reference numbers
- provide assistance in using microfilm readers and public computers
- advise on copying services and associated fees
The duty archivist can:
- help you access records
- answer research related questions
- help with specific archival queries