Preparing to visit an archive or museum for research

Museums and archives welcome visitors and researchers to make use of their collections. The following guidelines are aimed at helping to make the most of your visit and research time.

• Most repositories request that members of the public wishing to undertake research contact them prior to their visit. Two weeks or more notice may be required so check before your visit.

• Telephone, e-mail or write to the relevant archivist/curator with details of the research that you plan to undertake, with as much detail as possible of what archive material/museum objects you hope to study. The more specific you can be about your research the more archivists and curators will be able to help.

• In the case of museums, if possible make a prior visit to view relevant material on public display.

• Arrange a suitable appointment within standard opening times. Mention any access support that will be required for your visit.

• If you later find you are unable to keep the appointment telephone to cancel and rearrange your visit.

• Researchers are normally requested to complete signing in/out forms for security reasons and as a record of research undertaken. Proof of ID is sometimes requested.

• Pencils should be used for note taking to prevent ink damage to collections.

• Equipment taken into search rooms/museum store areas is usually restricted to paper, pencils, reference material, lap tops and other equipment necessary to the research being undertaken.

• Archival material should be kept in the order in which it is found.

• No food or drink can be consumed near archival material or museum objects.

• Some objects have to be handled with gloves, these will be provided if required.

• Contrary to stereotypes, archives and museums are not dusty and dirty places! However, some objects and archive documents, like old leather-bound ledgers, can leave residue on your hands and clothing so it is a good idea not to wear your best clothes.

• Copyright and photographic regulations must be followed.

• Photocopying and photographic reproduction is usually at the discretion of staff, depending on the condition of the material to be copied. There is usually a small charge for this and you may not be allowed to do the copying yourself.


Please remember that each archive or museum will have its own specific rules. Please respect these as they help to ensure that the archives and objects survive for future generations to also enjoy and use.