Archives Services
» Current schedule of charges for accessing and copying archival materials
The City Archives provides a reference service to the public. Records more than 30 years old can be made available to the public for research in the Archives’ Search Room. Requests for access to records less than 30 years old are generally referred to the appropriate Council Divisional General Manager, or may be accessed via a Freedom of Information application. Access to records in poor physical condition may be delayed until such time as conservation work can be carried out.
As well as assisting researchers identify relevant records, Archives staff prepare 'finding aids' such as guides, inventories and indexes, which facilitate access to archives. Some records are available immediately on microfilm or on open access in the Reference and Guide Area. Records may also be searched for electronically, either online or using the computer in the Archives' Search Room. About 40% of the Archives' total holdings are currently entered into the electronic database.
Most records will need to be retrieved from the Archives’ repository and ‘cleared’ for access before they can be made available. It is advisable to allow at least a day between requesting and receiving records for research.
For further information please download the brochure:
» A Guide to the Sevices and Holdings of the Adelaide City Archives
How to find information
An archive is slightly different from a library or a museum. There’s no instant access to information - you’ll need to rely on other means known as finding aids to find the right records. These are in effect the tools that provide access to archival material. They enable you to identify which records are going to be most useful for your research.
You may need to discuss your research project with an Archivist who can advise which records to look at. Lists of relevant records (known as source analyses) can be prepared in response to detailed enquiries; pre-prepared lists already exist for some subjects about which the City Archives commonly receives enquiries. Research enquiries may be made in person, by letter, fax, e-mail or telephone. Group visits and small tours of the Archives can usually be accommodated by prior arrangement.
Copying
Copying of paper based records can be carried out by Archives’ staff, provided the original item is in good condition. For small quantities this can generally be done more or less immediately, larger quantities within a day or two. Copies of Building Plans and photographs can also be arranged.
For information on fees, download the latest schedule of copying charges or request it from the Archives: phone (+61) 8 8203 7439 or email cityarchives@adelaidecitycouncil.com
Please note that items in poor physical condition cannot be copied until they have received proper conservation treatment.
Archival material is subject to the Copyright Act, 1968. Where copyright ownership is not vested in the Corporation it will be necessary for researchers to obtain the written permission of the copyright owner. Ask the Archivist if you have any queries about copying or copyright matters.
