Using the Library and Archives

How to arrange an appointment

1. Identify the items that you would like to view during your visit.

• Search using our collections Discovery layer and Museum Archives catalogue.
• We have created some helpful guides regarding how to search our collections and how to request items for an appointment.  Please refer to the links on the right.
• There is a maximum of 10 collection items per appointment, excluding e-resources, e.g. 10 volumes, 10 artwork boxes etc. This is because items can be large in size and our collections are not held centrally; they are held in numerous locations. We are not able to retrieve additional items during your visit.

2. When would you like to come?

• Refer to our opening hours and ensure that you give us at least eight working days’ notice. Any forthcoming closures are also advertised on the same homepage.
• Please note that special collections held off-site can take longer for us to provide access to. If you are travelling far, we advise that you give us as much notice as possible.

3. Email our team via library@nhm.ac.uk

• Include the list of items, or your research area if you need advice on what we may have.
• Let us know when you would like to visit.

4. What next?

• Our team will respond to you as soon as possible, to confirm your appointment and to provide you with information about accessing the Museum on the day of your appointment.
• Until you receive confirmation from us, your appointment is not finalised.
• In advance of your visit, please read the visitor guidelines and conditions of use PDF (20KB), the intellectual property terms and conditions PDF 34.8KB) and the data protection terms and conditions PDF (94KB).
• New visitors will be required to bring two forms of identification PDF (106KB) along with their completed membership form PDF (96KB). Please do not send these by email.