Alderstead Libraries & Archives Service preserves and provides access to local archive material, historical records and documentary collections connected with Alderstead.

What the archive service holds

Local archives can include historical council records, local documentary collections, records transferred for permanent preservation and material that helps explain the history of Alderstead and its communities. Archive descriptions record the origin and context of material so that a document is not separated from the information needed to understand it properly.

Access and preservation

Archive work balances public access with preservation and lawful restrictions. Some material can be made available directly, while other records may require handling controls or may remain restricted because of privacy, confidentiality or another applicable rule.

Current council records

Not every council record is an archive. Current operational and democratic records remain with the service responsible for them until the relevant records-management and transfer requirements are met. For current meeting records, use Meetings and decisions.

Researching the archives

Use Use the archives for help planning an enquiry. For information about the collections and how they are described, see Records and collections.

Use the archives

Start by describing the subject, person, place, organisation or period you are researching. Giving a date range and any known reference can help the archive service identify relevant material.

Accessing records

Archive material is made available in a way that protects the record and respects any legal or administrative restriction that applies. The service may provide access to a copy or finding information where direct access to the original record is not appropriate.

Records and collections

Alderstead's archive collections can include records created or acquired through local government and local heritage activity.

What the collections are for

Archive records support accountability, local history and research by preserving material with continuing administrative or historical value. Current operational council records remain with the service or records system responsible for them until they are transferred or otherwise disposed of under the applicable records arrangements.