On-site access
In line with the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council Inspiring Learning For All agenda, we have established a stimulating on-site search room environment allowing for immediate public access to the collections which have been fully indexed - search room access is free of charge.
We also have an ever-changing small gallery area which illustrates the many categories of images at SWiB.
SWiB search room & gallery
Appointments
Appointments are not necessary although please be advised you may be required to make an appointment if the search room is busy. If you would prefer to book an appointment or pre-order documents please telephone or email the image bank before your visit.
For details on how to book an appointment and our opening times see our contact us page.
Facilities
Situated in the historic Barbican area of Plymouth, next door to the Minerva Inn (the oldest public house in Plymouth), the main office and search room is on the ground floor of the grade two listed building and toilet facilities are available on the first floor of the building. There is a small seating area in the foyer leading to the search room.
There are no refreshments available at the image bank, but a small café is within walking distance on the first floor of Plymouth Arts Centre and within the City Centre nearby.
Getting Here and Parking
Plymouth Railway Station is about 15 minutes walk from the image bank though taxis are available outside. Bus services operate from the nearby Bretonside Bus Station and within the City Centre for local routes.
A map of our location can be viewed via our contact us page.
Permit parking only is available on Looe Street.
What to Bring
The public are invited to undertake their research; browse through the collection indexes; and view the growing catalogue of images. Proof of identity is required to make use of the search room resources in accordance with our Public Access Policy which is applicable to all search room users.
Visitors will also need pencils, no pens are permitted in the searchroom.
Coats, umbrellas, bags and briefcases will need to be left in the appointed area within the main office. Only notepads, pencils, laptops and cameras are permitted in the searchroom.
Production of original material
Should you wish to view original material (where permitted) staff will obtain the relevant sources for you upon completing a production form.
Searchroom Rules and Etiquette
In order to keep the records in the best possible condition please do not smoke, eat or drink in the searchroom. Gloves and other preservation aids will be issued with original documents, where necessary.
For the benefit of other users, please observe a quiet working atmosphere and ensure that your mobile phone or pager is switched off.
When you arrive you will be asked to sign in the search room register - signing in means that you agree to abide by the searchroom conditions of access.
Laptops and Cameras
Laptops may be used at the owner's risk and a mains operation power supply is provided.
Photography is allowed subject to the completion of a copyright declaration form.
Services
Our friendly staff are always on hand to assist with enquiries and to search the working internal database for relevant material.
Copies of material can be provided subject to the completion of a copyright declaration form.
Off-site access
For specific searches, staff can check internal catalogue database upon request - This is a free service. Simply contact the image bank by phone or email, details provided via our contact us page.
For general enquires, the full range of image categories can be accessed via our online galleries page.
