Manchester City Council

Please note that the Archives Service is now closed as a result of Central Library's temporary closure for renovation and refurbishment in Spring 2010. However the Local Studies Library and Microfilm Unit is open until 1 April 2010.

Information about Archives and Local Studies services while Central Library is closed.

More information about Central Library's temporary closure.

Public access to original records is provided in the archive searchroom during Monday to Thursday 9am to 4pm.  Most archives can be requested and viewed on the same day. Records are retrieved at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. However it is advisable to book a place in advance. You can also order archives in advance, so that they are ready for you upon your arrival.

Some of our collections are held in our out-store and advance notice is necessary in order to see them. Our archives catalogue will indicate which collections are stored off site.

We request that readers using documents provide official proof of their name and address, such as a driving licence, rent book or bill. CARN tickets are accepted, but not library tickets.

Limited photocopying can be undertaken depending on the format and condition of the documents. Other reprographic services are available. You are welcome to bring your own camera to photograph items (there is a charge for this).

An increasing amount of archive material is available on microfilm, and researchers are welcome to come and use these microfilms as well as archive catalogues and indexes during the Central Library opening hours of 9am to 8pm Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm Friday and Saturday.

Please telephone us during archive opening hours or email us so that we may help you plan your visit to us.