Archives and local history

Rotherham Archives and Local Studies Service collects, preserves and provides access to hundreds of years’ worth of informational resources that reveal the history and heritage of Rotherham.

The archive collection comprises the minute books, ledgers, departmental records and plans of Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, and its predecessor authorities dating back to 1328. We also hold donated documents, including correspondence, diaries and printed ephemera, as well as oral histories and photographs, relating to local organisations, companies, businesses, schools, charities, non-conformist churches, families and individuals with connections to Rotherham.

The local studies collection is made up of printed books, periodicals, newspapers and maps concerning the history of Rotherham, as well as South Yorkshire.

These unique and fascinating resources are made available for all to discover in our Search Room, which is situated at Clifton Park Museum. We also offer free use of family history resources, including Find My Past Library Edition.

Our opening times are as follows:

  • Monday - Closed
  • Tuesday - Closed
  • Wednesday - 10am to 4pm
  • Thursday - 10am to 4pm
  • Friday - 10am to 4pm
  • Every other Saturday - 10am to 12.30pm, 1pm to 3.30pm
  • Sunday - Closed
  • Bank holidays - Closed

Please note that if you wish to visit the Search Room, it is advisable to book an appointment in advance. This enables us to make sure the relevant resources are got out ready for you.

You can book either the morning (10am-1pm), afternoon (1pm-4pm) or all day (Wednesday to Thursdays 10am-4pm and Saturdays 10am-3.30pm. Please be aware that we close for lunch on Saturdays 12.30-1pm).

To make an appointment, please complete the below Enquiry Form.