More about visiting Shropshire Archives
We want your visit to Shropshire Archives to be as enjoyable and useful as possible.
If your questions aren’t answered by the information provided below, please check our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page or email us at archives@shropshire.gov.uk with your specific queries.
Do I need to book?
You are very welcome to drop in and browse. However, we advise you to contact us in advance if:
- you need to use any sources on microfiche or microfilm (we can make sure a machine is reserved for you)
- you are not sure what format the sources you need are in (eg. microfiche, original, printed)
- you need advice on which sources to use
- you are not sure whether the sources you need are available here
- your research is likely to be lengthy or specialist
We will do our best to help you with your queries. However, we are not always able to provide an instant answer, so it is worth contacting us well in advance of your visit.
Shropshire Archives Readers' Tickets: what are they and do I need one?
If you want to look at original archive or rare material, including photographs and some newspapers, you will need a Shropshire Archives Reader's Ticket. Having a Shropshire Archives Reader’s Ticket enables you to see the whole wealth of material kept here, from 11th century town charters to last year's copies of the Shrewsbury Chronicle. Our Reader’s Ticket also gives you other benefits, such as a bulletin with updates on Shropshire Archives. This ticket is unique to Shropshire Archives - we aren't part of the library system or the CARN system used in some other offices.
You can get a Shropshire Archives Reader's Ticket when you arrive, but you will need to bring with you:
- Official proof of identity showing name, address and signature, e.g. driving licence
- Two loose passport sized photographs
We can take photographs for you for £1.50.
Do I need a Shropshire Archives Reader's Ticket if I am aged 16 or under?
If you are aged 16 or under, you will need a Shropshire Archives Student Ticket to access our People's Network computers (for the Internet) or consult material in the Search Room.
Under 16s need to bring:
- A letter from your parent or guardian giving permission for you to use the computers and/or consult material in the Search Room
- Two loose passport sized photographs
We can take photographs for Student Tickets at a reduced rate of 15p.
What facilities are there at Shropshire Archives?
Coffee Room
You are welcome to bring your own food to eat in this area. You can purchase hot and cold drinks from the drinks machine. There are plenty of shops and cafes nearby where you can buy food.
Lockers
These are available in the coffee room for storing your bags, coats and other personal belongings during your visit. They operate with a returnable £1 coin. If you wish to use original material, please note that bags and coats cannot be taken into the Search Room.
Toilets
These are situated through Reception. They are suitable for use by all visitors, including disabled users.
Items for sale
We have a small shop. We sell books of local and family interest, pencils, pens and other stationery items, census vouchers and copies of some of our maps and other interesting documents. Some material is also available at our on-line shop.
Is there access for disabled people?
There are 2 parking spaces for people with disabilities at the entrance to Shropshire Archives. These need to be booked in advance.
Inside, all public areas, including toilets, are accessible to wheelchair users.
A hearing loop is located at the reception and enquiry desks.
We also have access to a "clear star viewer" which uses CCTV technology to enlarge pages from printed books for you. Please ask staff if you would like to use this.
Our free guides to sources are all available in large text - please ask staff.
Will there be staff to help me?
Staff are always happy to help where possible.
Shropshire Archives is often very busy, so if you are visiting us for the first time, why not join one of our tours for new users? These are held every Thursday at 10.30am and last for approximately 30 minutes. The tours will familiarize you with the important sources and how to find them. Please telephone 01743 255350 to book your place.
On Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday mornings (10am-1pm), members of Shropshire Family History Society have an advice desk at Shropshire Archives. They can help you find your way around the microfiche or use the computers.
