The Cottonian Research Room
This multi-purpose space offers a dedicated quiet research area for you to access and view the varied collections at The Box which includes Plymouth Archives (formerly Plymouth and West Devon Record Office). The room also features highlights from the historically important Cottonian Collection of fine art on display.
The research space
Whether you're tracing your family history, working on a school project or researching a PhD thesis, we can make physical collections and archives records held at The Box available to you by appointment. There is no charge for this service, however we welcome donations in support of our work.
We have dedicated computer terminals with free access to a range of subscription online family history platforms including Ancestry and Find My Past. These terminals can also be used to view archive film on BFIPlayer and BFIReplay which contain over 2,000 works from the extensive moving image collections at The Box, as well as our online catalogues with information about the paper and photographic archive collections.
Our research space is available on:
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 10am-1pm and 1.30pm–4.30pm
- Thursday, Friday and selected Saturdays: 1.30pm–4.30pm
- Please note, the Cottonian Research Room will be closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday
You can view highlights from our Cottonian Collection on:
- Thursday to Saturday: 10am-1pm
- Sunday: 1.30–5pm
We look forward to welcoming you.
Making an appointment
It's really easy to book some time in our research room. Use the links below to help you. If you've got queries, we've provided some Frequently Asked Questions which we hope will help you.
Identify what you'd like to see using our online catalogues:
Please read these guidelines in advance of your research visit.
FAQs
How many items can I order?
You can pre-order up to five items per research visit. Extra documents can be ordered in person on the day, at the discretion of the staff on duty.
Are some materials restricted?
While we do our best to make everything available, we do have some items that are restricted for reasons of ethics, safety or fragility. Access to these materials will require enhanced clearance from our curators or archivists. If your request includes restricted items we will contact you.
Where can I search for your collections online?
You can identify what you'd like to see using our online archives catalogue and collections catalogue. Some items may not appear in our collections catalogues because they are awaiting publication clearance. We're aware that our collections catalogue is not currently working and this is being investigated. If you need assistance or have any queries about this, please contact us by emailing collections@plymouth.gov.uk or by phoning 01752 308880.
How do I make an appointment?
Register for an appointment by clicking 'Make a booking' in the info panel above. We also have some useful 'Handling collections guidelines' which you can read ahead of your appointment.
Can I photograph items?
Yes, you can take photographs of the items you're researching for your own personal use. Please purchase a half day or full day permit in advance of your appointment. Head to our online shop and then bring your e-receipt with you on the day.
I'm not sure what I'm looking for. Is there someone I can ask for help?
Call us on 01752 308880 and we'll do our best to help.
The Cottonian Collection
On the days and times when our research space is not in use, you can view a selection of works from our historic Cottonian Collection.
Gallery hours are:
- Thursday to Saturday: 10am-1pm
- Sunday: 10am-5pm