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Local History Library

Over 20,000 books and pamphlets dating from the 17th century to the present day

Cuttings Collection which includes newspaper articles and printed ephemera

25,000 photographs and illustrations

Over 2,000 maps and plans dating from Elizabethan times to the present day

Microfilms including local census returns from 1841 to 1891, local newspapers, parish registers and trade directories

Audio-Visual Collections

Archives

While there are substantial holdings of archives relating to the borough, much of Tower Hamlets material is deposited elsewhere (notably at the Greater London Record Office).

Local authority records dating from the 16th century, including minutes, rate books and correspondence files

Over 8,000 deeds recording the transfer of properties in the borough

Documents relating to many local institutions

Local History Library and Archives

Bancroft Library,
277 Bancroft Road,
London
E1 4DQ

Local History: 020 7364 1290
Fax: 020 7364 1292
email: localhistory@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Registration

All users are required to register with the service on their first visit. Please ensure you bring a form of ID providing proof of your permanent address.

Opening times

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
10am to 5pm
Wednesday
9am to 5pm
Thursday
9am to 8pm
Friday
Closed
Saturday (fortnightly, see below)
9am to 5pm
Sunday
Closed

 

 

 

 

 

Local History Saturday Opening Dates:

4 February and 18 February 2012
3 March, 17 March and 31 March 2012
14 April and 28 April 2012
12 May and 26 May 2012
9 June and 23 June 2012

If you would like to sign up for our newsletter, email us at localhistory@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Getting There

By public transport

Nearest tube: Stepney Green
Bus Routes: 25, along Mile End Road 

By car

There is a limited number of pay and display parking spaces in the surrounding roads as well as parking spaces for Tower Hamlets residents permit holders.
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Services

Hand lists relating to various types of records held are available on request

Photocopying is allowed for much of the collection depending on copyright and physical condition

Photographic copies, subject to copyright, can be obtained; sizes and prices available on request

An extensive range of informative publications are available for sale.

We cannot, however, undertake detailed genealogical research on behalf of enquirers.

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020 7364 4332
  

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