FAQs

Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, we prefer visitors to make an appointment so that we can ensure staff and reading room space are available. Contact us.

Are all your collections held on the main campus?
Some of our collections are held in our off-site Research Reserve. Books can be ordered for consultation in our Reading Room and we prefer a week’s notice. Contact us separately to order archives. Our Brunel collection is housed at the Brunel Institute, a collaboration between the University of Bristol and the SS Great Britain, and can be consulted there.

What is a Major Collection?
We divide our holdings into various categories. You can browse these from the Major Collections page.

Is everything in Special Collections on the Online Archive Catalogue?
No, the Online Archive Catalogue is still a work in progress. You may need to refer to paper lists in our Reading Room and much of the printed book stock is catalogued in Library Search.

How do I order a copy of an image I have seen online?
Please contact Special Collections, quoting the image reference number, which begins with DM.

How can I get further help with searching for and accessing materials?
Contact special-collections@bristol.ac.uk.