Accessing the Reading Room
Use the Reading Room to:
- access original records
- copy records
- speak to an archivist
- use microfilm readers
- use search computers.
Before visiting the Reading Room, you will require a user account to view and handle records. You can create an account here on ArchivesSearch. We also recommend you pre-order items through the ArchivesSearch catalogue so they're available on your arrival.
Opening hours
The Reading Room, located at 435 Compton Road, Runcorn, is open:
- Monday to Friday, 9am–4.30pm
- the second Saturday of each month, 9am–4.30pm.
The Reading Room is not open on public holidays or during the Christmas–New Year holiday period.
Facilities
The Reading Room is equipped with:
- touchscreen computers to access catalogue, online indexes and other finding aids and resources
- power outlets on desks for personal devices
- free Wi-Fi
- microfilm copying machines (you are able to use your own USB or you can purchase one on-site)
- large-screen digital map reader
- a Reader's Lounge with tea and coffee facilities as well as a refrigerator and microwave
- an undercover outdoor courtyard
- free undercover parking
- lockers to safely store bags
- wheelchair access to all public areas.
We also have several hygiene measures, including:
- hand sanitising stations at the entrance and inside the Reading Room
- sneeze guards installed at the reception and archivist desks
- safety bins around the Reading Room for tissues, wipes and glove disposal
- desks spaced apart.
When you visit the Reading Room, we ask that you wash your hands with soap and dry them before using the computers, microfilm readers and original records, and wipe down the machines after you use them.
We ask that you do not use your own hand sanitiser as this could damage original records.
Online access
You can also access some services online:
- Search the records using the ArchivesSearch catalogue
- Order copies of records
- Browse through images on our Flickr page
- Watch videos about stories in the collection and researching the archives
- Explore Queensland through the records of QSA and other historical organisations on Q-Album
- Engage with us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Enquiries
Contact us if you have a research enquiry or need more information about visiting Queensland State Archives.