If you want to view between 20 and 40 documents all from the same series, you should book a visit with a bulk document order.

Making your booking

Our reading rooms are open between Tuesday and Saturday, 10:00-14:50. Your appointment will last for the whole of that time.

Visits must be booked at least a week in advance. After an initial 4-week release, bookings for subsequent dates will be released on a more regular basis.

We will cancel orders without a pre-booked visit and you will not be allowed into the reading rooms.

Each booking is for one person only on a first come, first served basis – you will not be able to bring anyone with you, unless they book a visit themselves or have a duty of care. Please be thoughtful and considerate of others when you book – we may cancel your booking if you exceed our reasonable limit of two bookings per month.

Your seat number will be allocated when you visit.

We are able to offer a small number of camera stands for use in the reading rooms – you can select this option when you book.

What to expect when you visit

Our building is COVID-19 secure. You must agree to comply with our Coronavirus Visitor Charter as part of the booking process. Please remember to wear a face covering when you visit, unless you have a valid exemption.

Watch a video to find out more about what to expect when you visit

We have introduced a number of measures to ensure the safety of our visitors and staff. These include:

• One-way systems and capacity controls in frequently used areas

• Floor markers and temporary signage to help with social distancing

• Rigorous cleaning during and at the end of each day

• Easier access to sinks for hand washing and provision of hand sanitiser.

Our website provides more information about how to get here and what you can take into the reading rooms and information about the facilities that are available during your visit.