A large proportion of local studies stock ( approx 95%) is housed in restricted areas, and as such is a reserve collection. This is because of the age, rarity, importance and fragility of material.

Virtually all of our restricted access material can be requested for use in the Central Library, but we cannot allow this material to leave the building and it has to be used iKnow, where staff can supervise and assist if needed. The stock comprises books, manuscripts, photographs, newspapers and maps.

See the list below to find out more about our resources.