Search the Knowledge Base

The Library has collected together some of our most frequently asked questions and placed them in a searchable knowledge base which is hosted by QuestionPoint.. Here you will find a variety of questions relating to the Library, how to use the Library, and the collections held here.

When submitting an enquiry to us, please indicate

• your name and full contact details

• all the relevant information gathered to date (e.g. what research has already been undertaken e.g. via your own public library or archives office)

• full names, dates and locations if submitting a genealogical or local history enquiry

Type of enquiries answered

We can answer enquiries which are based on the varied collections held at the Library, as well as basic genealogical enquiries, if sufficient details are provided. We are willing to:

• confirm the details of individuals from census returns, or search a reasonable proportion for returns for specific individuals or households. period for specific records

• confirm the details of individuals from parish or nonconformist registers, or search a reasonable span of years for a specific entry

• confirm details from the General Register Office index, or search a reasonable period for specific records

• search for the details of properties by searching tithe or estate maps

• confirm bibliographic details such as author, title, date and place of publication of books and articles

• search for newspaper articles if sufficient information is provided

• search for photographs or pictorial works of specific individuals or places

• provide details of specific manuscripts and archives

• provide copies of items from the Library's collections

Please note that the majority of our catalogues and databases may be searched online from the Library's website. A large number of items from our collections have also been digitised.

Requesting copies remotely

If you are unable to visit the Library, you may contact the Enquiries Service with

• full details of what is required

• the item's catalogue reference number

• your contact details

Once we have confirmed our holdings and considered any conservation and copyright issues, an order form will be sent to you to sign, date and return to the Enquiries Service with payment. The form may be faxed, posted or sent electronically. You may pay for your copies by cheque or directly into the Library's bank account, or by credit card. Should you wish to pay by card, please print the 'payment by credit card form', complete all details, remembering to note the order number which will be on the form, and return to the Enquiries Service with the order form. Please contact us if you need any advice or assistance.