The Archives Reference Room

Re-Opening Information

The Rooms Provincial Archives is now open for onsite public services. With the health and safety of our visitors and staff as our top priority, we are complying with public health order directives including social distancing and cleaning requirements, as well as guidelines provided to cultural heritage institutions by the Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI). 

The Archives Reference Room will be open by appointment only. Unfortunately, we will not be able to accommodate drop-in visitors to the Archives. Some things, such as self-serve research resources and public computers will no longer be available. The number of researchers allowed into the Reference Room at any one time will be limited to 6, and 2-hour appointment times will be assigned to allow for capacity control. We have reduced the number of tables to provide for physical distancing and we have installed Plexiglass around the Reference Desk. In accordance with CCI guidelines, all records will be physically isolated after use for a period of 72 hours.

Access to the Archives Reference room will now be by appointment only.

Here is how it works:

  • Researchers wishing to view records at the Archives should contact us by email at archives@therooms.ca or call (709) 757-8088 to book an appointment.
  • Archives staff will discuss your research requirements and the records you would like to view.
  • If you know the records you want to view, you can provide the details in your email.
  • Once we have determined which records you would like to view, an appointment time will be booked.
  • You will be given a table number, and your requested records will be ready and waiting for you on that table when you arrive.
  • Reference Room appointments will be from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday evening appointments will be from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  • Visitors must wear non-medical masks and follow safety guidelines as provided by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Hand sanitizing stations have been provided in the Reference Room and throughout The Rooms building.