Searchroom regulations

1. Readers wishing to consult original documents must be in possession of a valid reader's ticket. This is not transferable and should be presented at each visit to the Archive Service. Registration for a reader's ticket constitutes an agreement to abide by these regulations.

2. Readers may not smoke, drink or eat in the searchroom.

3. Only pencil may be used for making notes in the searchroom.

4. Bags and briefcases must be placed in the lockers at reception.

5. Documents must not be written upon or marked in any way, and readers must not lean on any document or place upon it any book, paper or other document or item. Tracings may be made by arrangement with the staff, who may specify the way in which they are made. Readers observing damage to documents should report it to the Archivist.

6. The issue of documents is at the discretion of the Archive staff. Documents must not be taken from the archive searchroom. Documents which are no longer required by the reader should be returned to the Archive staff. All documents should be returned to the staff by 4.45pm (6.45pm on Tuesdays).

7. Not more than one bundle or file, or 3 volumes, may be in use at any one time. Where a reader is issued with loose documents in a bundle or file, these items must be retained in their proper order and kept in their folder. Similar conditions apply to the issue of photographic material. Before issue, these papers or photographs will be counted and checked by staff who will likewise check them on their return.

8. In consideration for other readers, the archive searchroom must be kept as quiet as possible. Readers are asked not to make or receive mobile phone calls in this area.

9. Photocopying is undertaken at the discretion of the Archive staff. Photocopying will not be permitted where there is a risk of damage to documents or where copyright is reserved. Except in cases where copyright is reserved, readers can use a camera to photograph documents, provided the relevant copyright declaration form is completed. While readers may refer to and quote freely from most documents, permission to reproduce documents, maps and pictorial material in publications should be sought in writing from the County Archivist, for which there may be a charge.