Before you arrive

There are a number of actions you can take to make your visit useful and productive:

Checks to make when planning your visit

• Where we are and our opening hours
• View our online catalogues for the materials you want to see
• Make an appointment and check you have received confirmation
• Read our archives and collections policies

Set your expectations

• What do you hope to find - speak with your friends and family so you're not disappointed
• Have a good idea of a starting date or reference point from which to start your research - many of our resources are not indexed

Things to bring with you

• Your Birmingham Library card if you want to use our computers to access digital resources
• ID confirming your name, address and signature
• A camera if you want to make copies of materials in the search room for private use (there is a £2 daily permit charge)
• Ask someone with IT skills to come with you if you struggle with IT equipment
• Equipment to make notes (pens, pencils, notebook, recorder, tablet, etc)
• Cash or card if you want to make photocopies or print from our resources

When you arrive

• You will need to request a CARN ticket

Page last updated: 15 November 2024