How can I view a document I've found on the catalogue?

Only records described as either File or Item in the Extent field can be ordered. First, please take a note of the GCA Reference(s) of the item(s) you would like to view. Next, please arrange an appointment to visit our searchroom based in The Mitchell Library. Appointments can be arranged by emailing archives@glasgowlife.org.uk and quoting the GCA Reference(s). Details about what to expect during your visit are available at https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/libraries/city-archives.

I'm not able to visit the searchroom in person. Will staff be able to undertake research for me?

We operate a remote enquiry service and can answer queries by telephone, letter and email. We will research and answer simple enquiries (including copy requests) on behalf of remote enquirers. This research may include checking our finding aids as well as other reference volumes and sources on behalf of remote enquirers.

However, while staff can advise on potential sources within the archive for more complex enquiries, we cannot undertake research on an enquirer's behalf. In these cases, enquirers are advised to undertake their own research or commission another person or professional researcher to visit the archives searchroom for them. The Association of Scottish Genealogists and Researchers in Archives maintains a list of its accredited members who can undertake research: https://asgra.co.uk/find-a-researcher/.

GCA staff will search databases of poor relief applications and police personnel records for free. Charges apply if an application/record is found and a copy is requested.

GCA staff will also research some classes of record for a fee. These classes of record include burial records as well as building and Glasgow Burgh sasine searches for commercial searchers.

Can I get a copy of a document?

Yes. Provided that the material is stable enough to be copied and no copyright restrictions apply, we can arrange for a copy to be made for a fee.

I can't find the collection I'm searching for. Does that mean you don't have it?

No, it doesn't. Not all of our catalogues are available on this online catalogue. Some of our collections are awaiting cataloguing and some completed catalogues have still to be uploaded. Please email archives@glasgowlife.org.uk so we can confirm whether we hold the collection you're looking for.

Can I search for particular poor relief applications for named people or particular building plans on the catalogue?

No, not at the moment. These indexes are available as electronic databases in the searchroom for visitors. Alternatively, our staff can check them for you if you're not able to visit the searchroom.

Why can't I see images of the records in the catalogue?

Currently, only written descriptions are included in the catalogue and not images. However, we have published many of our photographs on our Facebook page. More are available to view via the Virtual Mitchell and The Glasgow Story (see Useful Links). Digitised images from collections relating to Scotland's Slavery Past are available to view via our Archive Collections page (https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/libraries/city-archives/archive-collections).