Lancashire Archives has reopened to the public this week, giving people direct access to a range of valuable services and information once again.

Visitors were welcomed back during Tuesday (6 October) as part of a phased reopening of Lancashire County Council’s archives, museums and libraries.

People will need to book an appointment before visiting.

The archives building in Bow Lane has been closed to visitors since March when the coronavirus restrictions were introduced, although a limited service had been able to continue.

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The building will be open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm, for pre-booked appointments only.

The archives will close from 12.30pm to 1.30pm so that the public areas can be cleaned between sessions.

Visitors will be asked to complete an online booking form, giving their preferred dates and sessions and listing all the document reference numbers, titles of books, or details of other material that they would like to use.

County Councillor Peter Buckley, Lancashire County Council’s cabinet member for community and cultural services, said: “I’m delighted that we are now able to announce the reopening of our wonderful archives to the public.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming people back into the archives again, but we need to take a careful approach to this.

“People will need to book an appointment to visit, respect social distancing rules, and to order materials that they will need in advance.

“I’m grateful for everyone’s patience and understanding, and I’d ask everyone to keep an eye on our website and social media channels where we will announce further details of other libraries and museums reopening, when it is safe to do so.”

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When visiting the archives, all visitors will be required to follow current COVID-19 guidelines, which include wearing a mask and social distancing, unless exempt.

Everyone will also be asked to provide their name and contact details to support the NHS Test and Trace system.

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An Archives Card will also need to be applied for in advance of a visit. More information is available here.

For those who can’t book online, appointments can be made by emailing the archives directly at archives@lancashire.gov.uk

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Will you be going to the Lancashire Archives? Let us know in the comments below