Using the Archives

This page has been designed to provide you with information on the Archives, and to help if you are thinking of paying us a visit.

Opening Hours:

• Tue 11am - 7pm
• Wed 9.30am - 5pm
• Thu 9.30am - 1pm

Please note that the archives will be closed on all Public Holidays.

How to Find Us

We are situated in the centre of Middlesbrough close to both the train station and A66 ring-road with a number of major bus routes passing close by. If you will be arriving by car, then there is a pay and display car park at towards the rear of the building.

Please view the map for our location; Map

Planning a Visit

If you are planning to visit us, the information below is intended to let you know what to expect and will be especially useful if this is your first experience of using an archive service.

It is not necessary to book a place but you may wish to contact us to book a microfilm machine or a computer, especially if you are travelling from some distance.

Because all our documents are unique, and therefore irreplaceable, some rules do apply; bags and coats must be left in the lockers provided and you will be asked to use a pencil for taking notes. Food and drink is not permitted but a small refreshment area is available in the building.

Viewing Documents

You can order on the day by noting down the ‘RefNo’ of the material/s you have selected. When you arrive you will be required to sign in before filling out our blue request slips. You may order 3 documents at a time and we aim to collect material as soon as possible. Times vary depending on how busy the service is.

The image below shows how to fill out the blue slips that you will find on the front desk in the search room.

Advance Ordering

Alternatively, you may order material in advance by sending us an email providing details of the documents you wish to view, allowing at least 24 hours prior to your visit. This will become easier as more of our catalogues come online.

Handling

Document supports are provided and staff will show you how to handle material to ensure that it is preserved in the best possible condition for future generations. (more details).

Restricted Records

Some records are unavailable to the public under the terms and conditions of the Data Protection Act. Staff will guide you to the relevant organisation that can provide assistance. Records in this category are marked in the catalogue and typically include hospital records, court records, school records and any other material containing sensitive personal data.

Computer Access

We have computers available for use including free access to www.ancestrylibrary.com

Microfilm Service

Many of our most popular and heavily used documents are now available on microfilm only. These include parish records, workhouse records, census returns and rate books.

Digital Records

Some of our collections have been digitised and are available on CD.

Copying

This will depend upon the condition of the documents and all photocopying will be done by a member of staff. We will not copy photographs, fragile material, tightly bound volumes or oversize material. You may use your own digital camera providing you agree to abide by copyright rules.

Charges

• A4 B&W photocopy 15p
• A3 B&W photocopy 25p
• A4 colour photocopy 50p
• A3 colour photocopy 75p

Reader Printer copies 50p

Using a digital camera 30p per image (Please consult our copyright declaration form here)

Groups

We welcome visits from groups but they must be booked in advance. Our Learning and Access Officers will be pleased to advise you (find their contact details here).