Collections library and study room

Our new Collections Library offers unrivalled access to the Museum's collection. It is a space for academic researchers, students and curious visitors.

Our concept is that no object is off limits

This normally behind the scenes space is open and accessible for anyone who would like to interact with the archive and collections.

No object is off limits. This approach allows us to be at the forefront of democratising stored collections, opening them up to as many people as possible and encouraging curiosity and creativity.

What's available

Our collections and archives give a unique insight into what home means to different people through everyday objects and personal stories, all related to the lived domestic experience.

Browse our collections online, view our curated collections or visit the Museum for inspiration. We're expanding what's available online all the time, so if you can't find what you're looking for our curatorial team can help you select objects and archives to view. Our collections include:

• printed books
• manuscript material
• archive material including The Bernard and Geraldine Cotton Archive of Regional Furniture from Britain and from certain other countries abroad
• photographs
• audio and film oral history interviews
• prints
• wallpaper and textile samples
• portable objects, including ceramics, glass and metalwork

Access and facilities

The Collections Library is accessible via stairs or lift and we have:

• various reading aids
• height adjustable furniture
• charging points for electronic devices
• a copy stand available to all

Please only bring into the Collections Library what you need for your research and leave anything else, including bags and pens, in our dedicated lockers.

You are welcome to take photographs on your own devices of our archives and objects subject to physical condition and copyright.

Our team will give you a brief introduction to archive and object handling at the start of your visit to keep both you and our collection safe.

How to book 

Please fill in the booking request form at least 5 working days before you plan to visit. We recommend sending your request two weeks in advance for the best chance of availability during busy times (for example, spring and summer breaks).

In the form, you will be asked about: 

• your details 

• preferred date and time 

• object numbers/shelfmarks/titles of items you would like to see 

• topic and purpose of your research 

You can request a maximum of 10 items per visit. 

The curatorial team will be in touch to confirm your booking and continue the conversation around your object and archive selections. 

You will need to follow our guidelines whilst in the Collections Library.  

If you wish to photograph any objects or archive materials, please ask a member of staff before doing so. You will need to agree to our Copyright Terms and Conditions and give details of all the items you photograph.