Access and Handling

Lancashire Archives welcomes people from all sectors of the community and aims to provide access for everyone in accordance with the Lancashire Archives Access Policy and Standards.

8.1 Lancashire Archives makes catalogued archives available to all users for consultation in appropriately controlled and supervised conditions, and in accordance with the current Searchroom Rules. Uncatalogued material or archives deemed to be at risk in their present format or condition may be produced under supervision, following advice from an archive conservator. We do not produce any materials assessed as too fragile or at risk.

8.2 Access to archives is subject to legitimate closure requirements, the reasonable wishes of the depositor, and the physical condition of the item.

8.3 Lancashire Archives supports the use of surrogate copies and makes them available where the condition of the original material is unstable, or where current or anticipated use will pose a threat to its survival. We provide both microfilm and digital surrogates. Researchers are encouraged to use these to minimise handling and reduce the risk of further damage to the original.

8.4 The greatest vulnerability of archive collections is through handling. The archive conservators train both staff and volunteers in the proper handling of archives and in promoting best practice in the searchroom.

8.5 We provide equipment and training for the movement and production of archives to minimise the risk of physical damage. We also provide handling aids and guidance for the correct handling of specific materials.

8.6 We provide researchers with appropriate aids (including book cushions, protective polyester sheets, and a variety of weights) to protect books and archives, and give instruction on their use.

8.7 Lancashire Archives recognises the value of using digital technology to increase access to archives and safeguard the collections. Many archive catalogues are available remotely through the online catalogue, LANCAT, and The National Archives Discovery website. An increasing number of original Lancashire archives is also being made available online. Digitisation is carried out in line with our Digitisation Policy.

8.8 We supply photocopies and digital copies of documents in accordance with our Copying Policy to allow remote access to the collections.

8.9 Lancashire Archives recognises both the benefits of displaying archives and the risks of exhibiting original documents. Material from the archive collections is made available for exhibition in line with national and professional standards. Institutions and individuals borrowing original material for exhibition are required to comply with the terms and conditions specified in our Exhibition Loan Agreement.