Archives & Libraries

For many people the first access they have with history outside of school is in the local library. Libraries are often the repository of huge swathes of local knowledge and expertise, while national libraries hold the key to pulling local knowledge together. In many places across the UK the library is a positioned in close proximity to the local archives, and even when they are not the two bodies have much in common and much to complement each other.  In this section information and articles will support the use and understanding of these two important history supporting bodies and inform those working in the sector.

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  • Historians in The National Archives

    Article

    The author of this article approached the Editor to give him a flavour of what might be found in The National Archives relating to political, secret service and civil service ‘interest’ in the views and activities of historians over the last century. It is certainly very significant that some of...

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  • What does the future hold for Archives and what do the archives hold for you?

    Article

    Most people would accept that our Society is changing at a rate, and in ways, with which our predecessors have never had to deal. The old stabilities and certainties seem to have disappeared from our modern day lives. Perhaps this is why so many people seem to be interested in...

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  • The Historical Manuscripts Commission

    Article

    The Historical Manuscripts Commission (or, to give it its full and formal title, the Royal Commission on Historical Manuscripts) was established in 1869. Its purpose was to enquire into the existence and whereabouts of manuscripts of value for the study of British history, and to make the results of its...

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  • Local Authority Record Offices: Our Heritage at Risk

    Article

    Rosemary Dunhill fears the review of local government structures might lead to damaging cuts in the archive service. The lives of archivists in record offices run by local authorities have been dominated in the last few years by the review of local government. The Government wished to simplify local government...

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