Access to Special Collections
The Special Collections Division is available for anyone to use, regardless of whether you are attached to an academic institution. Access to the Archives and Manuscripts and Rare Books seachroom, however, is by prior appointment.
If you are not a member of the University of Southampton and have not previously used the manuscript collections, the initial appointment must be made in writing, giving your permanent residential address, to:
The Archivist and Head of Special Collections
Hartley Library
University of Southampton
Highfield
Southampton
SO17 1BJ
It is not possible to make an initial appointment by telephone, fax or email.
Appointments for subsequent visits can be made with searchroom staff, by telephoning 02380 592721 or emailing Archives@soton.ac.uk
Members of the University of Southampton can make an appointment, including the initial appointment, telephoning 02380 592721 or emailing Archives@soton.ac.uk
Researchers who are not members of the University of Southampton are asked to bring with them evidence of identification, which includes their permanent residential address, on their initial visit to the Archives and Manuscripts or on their first visit in a calendar year.
Members of the University of Southampton should bring their university ID card with them on their first visit.
For curatorial reasons, special library regulations apply to the use of these collections.