Annual collections care closure – 23 December to 11 January

Our annual collections care closure takes place from Monday 23 December 2024 to Saturday 11 January 2025. We re-open at 9am on Monday 13 January 2025.

Visiting

Medway Archives Centre is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between 9am and 5pm, and on Saturdays between 9am and 12.30pm.

You need to make an appointment to view original archive material and use microfilm or fiche readers. We are accepting drop-in visits for published materials and photographs if there is space in the search room.

Arranging your visit

You can search or browse for original archive material on the Medway Council Heritage Services catalogue.

You can find books and periodicals by searching the Medway Libraries online catalogue.

A staff member uses an assistance dog. Please let us know if you have any dog allergies or phobias and we will do our best to help.

If you cannot find what you are looking for, please contact us.

How to make an appointment

Email us at archives@medway.gov.uk to make an appointment and to discuss which items you wish to consult.

For original archive material you must give at least one week notice of your intention to visit. 

When you book we'll ask for your name and contact details so that we can keep in touch with you about your appointment.

We are accepting drop-in visits for published materials and photographs if there is space. This is dependent on space being available in the search room, so we do recommend booking ahead of your visit. 

Facilities available for your visit

Copying and printing facilities

Copying and printing facilities are available for your visit (including photocopying, microfilm/fiche printing, or digital image requests). Digital image requests cannot be completed on the day, although we aim to complete these within 5 to 10 working days. More information and fees can be found on our fees and charges webpage.

Photography

You can buy a digital image permit and use your own device to take photographs of collection items, subject to normal agreements about your use of any images. More information and fees can be found on our fees and charges webpage.

Toilets, refreshments, and lockers

  • Toilets are available but only for visitors to Medway Archives Centre and Strood Community Hall
  • Lockers are available
  • There are no refreshment facilities currently available in the foyer.

When you arrive for your visit

  • We ask that you wash your hands prior to handling any collection material or use of any equipment
  • Please bring your own pencil and notebook, or laptop/tablet for taking notes.

Other services

  • We offer charged research and reprographics services. More information and fees can be found on our fees and charges webpage.