Archives & Local Studies
Before you visit the History Centre:
Please check the availability of Archives materials before visiting to avoid disappointment. Booking is required on certain days
Call us on 01204 332185 to arrange a booking.
Archives Collecting Policy
Welcome to the Archives section.
Since 1853, Bolton Public Libraries have collected all types of published and unpublished material of local significance. These materials are now held by the Bolton Archive Service.
In this section of the site you will find information about the range of services and resources available. It is intended to help you to prepare for your visit to the History Centre. If you have any comments about this or any other section please follow the feedback link here or at the bottom of every page.
The Archives and Local Studies Unit is located in the Bolton History Centre at Bolton Museum.
Find out how to get to the Bolton History Centre
Family Tree researchers
You might be interested in the resources listed in the Family History section. There are a few pointers to help you get started and to help plan ahead should you decide to visit.
Indexes
A comprehensive browsable list of records indexes relating to the Archives collection. These are organised into categories to help make it easier to find your way around.
Note: If you expect that you will need to look at a large number of items please telephone the search room at least 24 hours in advance on 01204 332185 to confirm arrangements with staff.
Visitor information
Opening hours 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to SaturdayInformation about availability of archives material. If you want to arrange a group visit there is more here about how to do so.
Fees & Charges
Photocopy charges and other chargeable services available in the Bolton History Centre.
There is also information on postal services and charges for overseas users.
Research outside of Bolton
Archives and local studies sources relating to the Bolton area are also to be found at other libraries and record offices, such as:
- Lancashire Record Office in Preston
- Public Record Office at Kew
- Greater Manchester County Record Office
- Manchester Central Library
Our staff will be able to point you in the right direction when hunting for possible sources in these other repositories.
Archives section contents
Family History
- Family trees
- Information resources
- Useful Addresses
- CD Resources
- Genealogical and other useful websites
- International Genealogical Index
