The main function of Northumberland Archives is to ensure the preservation of archive documents, photographs and other media relating to the County of Northumberland and to make these available for consultation by the public. We acquire (by deposit or gift) a wide range of archives from both official and private sources that relate to almost all aspects of the history of Northumberland. We also care for and make available in our search room the master and reference libraries of Northumberland County Council’s important collection of local history publications. All of our holdings are kept in secure environmentally controlled strongrooms to ensure their long term preservation.
Our collections are available to view in our public search rooms unless they are subject to statutory closure periods or restrictions imposed by the owners. Trained staff are on hand within the search rooms to advise users. Catalogues and indexes are available to consult within the search rooms and details of many of our collections are available to consult via our electronic catalogue.