Archives and local studies

Book your session

Access to original archive material at the Medway Archives and Local Studies Centre (MALSC) is by appointment only and requires a County Archive Research Network (CARN) reader's ticket.

To apply for a CARN reader’s ticket, you must bring two passport-size photographs and formal proof of identity showing your name, address and signature, such as a driving licence.

While some local studies material, such as printed books and maps, are available without appointment, many resources, such as film readers and computers, require advance booking.

Access to archives

Medway Archives holds the largest manual database in Medway Council.

Some local government records and other archival collections are not automatically open to public research under the Data Protection Act 1998 (www.opsi.gov.uk/ACTS/acts1998/19980029.htm) and other relevant legislation.

In such cases, the researcher should make a written or email application under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (www.opsi.gov.uk/ACTS/acts2000/20000036.htm).

MALSC staff can offer guidance on which collections are subject to such procedures and how to make an application. In cases where there is no infringement of the security of personal data or where there is no public interest exemption, approval for research will be given.

Your statutory rights are not affected and further information and guidance on freedom of information is available on this website or from the Information Commissioner (www.ico.gov.uk).

Opening hours

How to get there

MALSC is on the first floor of the Clocktower building, behind the former Civic Centre, Strood which is adjacent to Rochester Bridge. Buses stop a few yards away in Strood High Street and the railway station is a five-minute walk. Visitors travelling by car should follow signs to the Civic Centre car park which is accessible from Knight Road. Disabled access and facilities are available.

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