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LMA Archives in Guildhall Library

Date updated: 2/10/2023

The following collections of archives, which are managed by the London Metropolitan Archives (LMA), are accessed at Guildhall Library:

​Access

Archives from the three groups of archives listed above can be consulted at Guildhall Library, on production of either a City of London History Card or City Library Card or other acceptable proof of identity (passport, driving licence). Apply for a History Card at LMA on submission of two types of identity information (see the History card application page for full details) or apply for a Library Card at Guildhall Library, which requires acceptable proof of identity.

Items can be consulted during Guildhall Library opening hours.

Most of the original documents from the three named groups of archives stored at Guildhall can be produced within 20 minutes of request on average. Please request archives by writing out application slips available at the Guildhall Library enquiries desk. Please note:  these collections cannot be ordered online via LMA's Collections Catalogue. For records consulted on microfilm, the films are held on open access in the reading room.

​The following rules and regulations apply:

  • A City History Card or City Library Card or other acceptable proof of identity is required before access to archives is given.
  • Use of lockers for coats and bags is essential.
  • Pencil only
  • Laptops allowed
  • Items can only be viewed at the Rare Books Table in Guildhall Library (maximum of 12 readers)
  • Five items can be ordered at any one time; one item will be issued at any one time.

Copies

There are reader/printer machines at Guildhall Library for taking copies from microfilms. Copies cost 20p.

You are welcome to take photographs for private study of most records from the three series listed above. You will need to buy a Guildhall Library photo pass, which costs £5.00 per day; this acts as a copyright declaration. You will also need to disable the flash function on your camera.

You may also commission appropriate copies, using the application forms available at Guildhall Library enquiries desk. It is essential to leave contact information in case there is a need to contact you concerning the copying request.

Please note: no copies of any kind may be made of certain Clockmakers' Company records without prior written permission from the depositor.

Advice

All email and telephone enquiries about the three groups of archives housed at Guildhall Library should be addressed to LMA in the first instance.  Access to all other former Guildhall Library Manuscripts collections besides the three groups of archives is at LMA. Advance notice is required for access to some collections, particularly business records.

For specific access advice please contact LMA to make an enquiry.