Returning to the Archives: Glasgow City Archives @ The Mitchell

Photo by Glasgow City Archives

Earlier this week, Glasgow City Archives re-opened, much to the delight of many researchers.  Things are a bit different, so I’ve highlighted some of the changes to access along with links to more information and booking details.  For those who can’t go in person, I offer a research service, or you can check out their online resources (link at the end of this post).

There is no current information on access to ScotlandsPeople via the Registrar service in the building.  Any announcements regarding this re-opening will be made on this Glasgow Council web page.

Glasgow City Archives

The Archives' new opening hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday only, between 11am and 3pm, and appointments are essential.  These must be booked at least one week and no more than four weeks in advance, and can be for no more than 3 hours at a time. The North Street entrance to the building is currently closed and only the Granville Street entrance is in operation, with queuing when necessary.

The archives staff will provide an advisory service in advance of your visit, with suggestions on what sources will best suit your research purposes.  You'll be able to pre-order up to six documents to view during your appointment.

For full details of the arrangements to visit the archives, see their Frequently Asked Questions. 

The booking form on this page should be filled in to apply for your appointment and submitted by e-mail.

Alternative online family history resources are listed on this page, under the Special Collections and Glasgow City Archives section. There are a variety of databases you can search online, including church and militia records.

The Virtual Mitchell website has an extensive collection of historical photographs of Glasgow buildings, which you can search by area, street, or subject. 

Special Collections at the Mitchell Library

The Special Collections department of the Mitchell, on the same floor as the Archives, is also open, under restricted conditions.  Of particular interest to family historians are their newspaper collections, microfilm records, monumental inscriptions, and local history books. 

In future blog posts I'll be following the re-opening of other archives, and sharing information about those record offices that are starting to welcome visitors once more.