Using the Archives
Information on how to access material in the IET Archives and what to expect when you visit. Details of our enquiry service and our research guides on popular topics.
The Archives are open to members of the IET, academic researchers and any member of the public with a genuine research topic.
Before your visit
Before you visit us it would be useful if you look at our online catalogue and search for the material that you require. We ask that you make an appointment with us before your visit as researcher space is limited.
It is possible to order items in advance if you know the reference numbers but if you require further help there are qualified staff on hand to assist you and recommend suitable material for your research.
During your visit
On your visit you will be shown to our supervised researcher desk and asked to sign our visitor book and read our rules which are summarised below.
The reason for these rules is to ensure that the unique and sometimes fragile material is handled correctly for their future preservation and access for others.
Please also be aware that items from the Archives are not available for loan. It may be possible to have items copied, please refer to the Archivist for details.
IET Archives reading room rules
- Please use pencil only for making notes.
- Please do not eat or drink when consulting archive documents.
- Please handle documents with care. Cushions and weights are available.
- Please do not lean on any documents, especially while making notes.
- Please use the gloves provided while handling photographs.
- Please do not remove any documents from the reading room.
Enquiry service and research guides
We also offer an enquiry service for general historical enquiries. Please contact us in the first instance to see if we can help you.
Alternatively, you may like to read our research guides that provide information on popular topics such as family history, the history of the Institution, telegraphy, Women in Engineering and Michael Faraday.