Reader's Ticket

Application process

 A reader's ticket is valid for three years and gives readers access to all reading rooms and to the Family History Room.

You may apply for a reader's ticket in advance by using our online application form.

Once we receive your application we will send you a confirmation link via email. This stage of your registration will not be complete until you activate the link. Once activated, a member of staff will contact you within one working day with your ticket number, and you can then collect your ticket in the reader's ticket office, located in the main building.

Please note: In order to verify your identity and provide you with a reader’s ticket, you must bring current photographic identification. Acceptable forms of identification include a passport, driver’s licence, student card, social security card, travel pass, and employment ID.

If you do not have access to email, it is possible to register in person at the reader’s ticket office. 

Reader's ticket office opening hours.

Renewing your reader’s ticket

If your ticket expired more than three years ago, you will need to apply for a new ticket. We are not permitted to hold personal information for more than three years, due to our data protection (GDPR) obligations.

You can renew your ticket at the reader’s ticket office. Please bring your most recent reader’s ticket with you. If the ticket expired more than 12 months ago, you will also need to produce a form of photographic identification.

Lost tickets

If you lose your reader’s ticket, you will need to apply for a new ticket in the reader’s ticket office. Please bring a form of photographic identification with you.

Terms and conditions of use

Please familiarise yourself with these documents as you will be asked to indicate that you agree to comply with the terms and conditions as part of the ticket application process:

• Rules for readers 
• Copyright waiver
• Readers ICT acceptable usage policy 2022