The search room is where we produce original documents that have been requested from our repositories. It is always staffed, with a trained team available to offer advice and assistance as required. It’s important to remember that the staff don’t have all the answers, but instead are sign-posts, able to point you towards different sources of information.
How does it work?
To access original records in the searchroom, customers have to book a time-slot in advance. Please email archives@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk to make your booking. We will ask you to send us a list of the records you would like to consult 2 days before your visit so that we can prepare things for you. The best way to see what records we hold is through our online catalogue. If you're not sure about anything, then please get in touch and we will be happy to advise you further.
The room has various finding aids, paper catalogues and reference books to help customers identify other sources of information. There are also surrogate copies of the 1840s tithe maps and their apportionments, as well as various Ordnance Survey maps in the cabinets around the room.
You can use your own camera to photograph the documents, please ask a member of staff about this. Please note that occasionally some documents may be subject to copyright restrictions.
Documents cannot be taken out of this room for any reason, unless expressly authorised by an Archivist.
Things to know:
- occasionally you may be asked to wear gloves if you are handling photographic material. This is to protect the documents.
- there are weights of various shapes and sizes to hold documents in place, please use them!
- large volumes should be consulted on a book cushion, to protect the spine of the book.
- large maps or plans should be consulted on the map table at the end of the room.
- staff are always happy to show you how to handle documents correctly.
- always be careful not to lean on any part of the documents, you can easily damage something irreparably.
- some documents are too fragile to produce to the public. An assessment will be carried out either by an Archivist or the Conservator if required.