Island Archives

The Island Archives was created in 1986 to collect, preserve and provide access to public and private records relating to the history of the Bailiwick of Guernsey. Spread over three floors of the deconsecrated St Barnabas Church in Cornet Street the Archives houses thousands of documents, files, books and images that date from the 14th century to the present. We maintain an extensive collection of records of the States of Guernsey, both ancient and modern. Others of historical value are obtained by purchase, deposit or donation from institutions or private individuals.  

Copies are supplied subject to all relevant legal provisions, including those relating to copyright and data protection. In most cases where a copy of material within copyright is being made and supplied by the Island Archives a declaration form must be completed and signed by the user. There may besides be certain restrictions imposed by the depositor. Please also note that large quantities of copying may be subject to an extended waiting period or refused. Photocopying or scanning can subject items to risk of permanent damage due to the high UV levels and heat involved. For this reason there are some records that we will be unable to copy, particularly older materials or those in a fragile condition. In most cases we will be unable to copy the following items due to these risks, although another form of copying may sometimes be possible: Original photographs; Occupation registration forms; Parchment or vellum documents; Documents with seals; Items which are fragile or damaged; Oversize items; Pages or folded enclosures from heavy books, or those with tight bindings. In some cases users may be permitted to use their own digital cameras or electronic devices (without flash), to take photographs of items in the research area under staff supervision. Please ask a member of Archives’ staff before taking any photographs. Please do not hesitate to ask any member of Archives staff for clarification or further information regarding the foregoing, and we will endeavour to provide an appropriate and timely response, although in some cases we may have to refer the matter to the Archivist or take other advice before proceeding. Researchers are reminded that it is their responsibility to comply with all relevant legal provisions, including those relating to copyright, in respect of material and information made available by the Island Archives. The Guernsey Legal Resources website is http://www.guernseylegalresources.gg/  

Whilst most of our records concern Guernsey, we also hold a number covering the rest of the Bailiwick, including an extensive Alderney collection. 

Most records are available for public viewing, although some materials of a sensitive nature may be subject to restrictions. Further information about the terms of accessing records can be found in the Island Archives' access policy. Visitors wishing to consult records created in the last 100 years and potentially containing personal data will be required to sign a researcher agreement form to be given access to these records, and are encouraged to read the access policy for further information.