Archives
Archives in Westmeath
Archives are primary sources. They are evidence of human activity, worthy of long-term preservation.
They come in various formats and media including paper records, electronic records (e.g. on computer disks), maps, plans, photographs, drawings, sound recordings and film.
The Archives Service is at an early stage of development and much of its holdings are in storage and have yet to be processed (cleaned, arranged and listed). However, some important archives are available to the public and may be consulted in the Reading Room of County Library Headquarters.
Please contact the Archives Department prior to your visit to discuss your query.
Due to the very large backlog of material for processing, much will remain unavailable to the public for the foreseeable future. Westmeath County Council adheres to the ‘thirty year rule’ (meaning that in general, archives that are thirty years old and over are made available for research) however, the Service reserves the right to ‘close’ specific material for reasons such as the sensitivity of its content or its fragile condition.
Copies may be made from microfilm, however, please note that the photocopying of original material is not allowed because of the potential damage to the archives. For further information contact:
Archives Department
Westmeath County Library Headquarters,
Dublin Road,
Mullingar.
Tel.: 044-9340781
E-mail: library@westmeathcoco.ie
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