Copying services

You can get copies of:

• documents (deeds, maps, photographs etc)
• print publications: items from the local studies library can usually be photocopied
• microfilm: can be copied on our reader-printer machines. Staff can also provide copies of microfilm archives
• online material: self-service copies of images can be made from Ancestry (available to use free within Dorset History Centre) along with other websites

We will advise on options for copying, which can vary depending on the format, size and condition of the item in question. Certain documents or collections may have restrictions on copying due to their condition, copyright, or their terms of deposit.

Reproductions of, or extracts from, documents must not be published without permission of the County Archivist.  

On-site facilities and charges

You are welcome to use the self-service photocopier in the Local Studies Library and printers in the Family History Room. 

Please buy a camera permit if you'd like to use your own camera or device to photograph original documents in the searchroom. You may take as may pictures as you like for the duration of your permit. Some documents are subject to restrictions.

Copies are made at our discretion, depending on the condition of the document.

Ordering copies by post or email

Contact us with details of the documents that you wish to have copied or speak to a member of staff. We'll give you an order form to complete and return to us. Please note:

• orders for digital copies and copies by post can take up to 20 working days
• you must pay us before copies are delivered
• we'll estimate how much your order will cost. Sometimes our estimate will change, but we'll keep you informed
• we may need a deposit on large orders before copying begins

Charges and fees

These prices are based on documents which require a single camera shot or scan to image. Larger documents may require additional scans, contact us for a quote.

Digital copies will be supplied by email or via a link to download. 

Certified copies

• certified copies of various documents can be requested for legal or official purposes. The copy of the original document is certified as a true copy of the original document
• a certified copy costs £19 including the search for a specific entry, copying and certification

Copy certificates

• certificates of baptism and burial entries in Dorset parish registers can be supplied for legal or official purposes
• certificate fees are set by the Church of England.
• a copy certificate of a baptism or burial from a parish register entry costs £36 (plus £2.50 postage).

For copies of birth and death certificates please contact the General Register Office or the Dorset Registration Service:

Reproduction fees

All requests for reproducing archive material held at Dorset History Centre must be made in writing to the County Archivist; please include the document reference number(s) and the intended use of the reproduction.