Local Studies Library and Archive
Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond, TW9 1TP - Getting here
Email: localstudies@richmond.gov.uk
Phone: 020 8734 3309
Opening times
Visiting the library and archive
For security, visitors to Local Studies will be required to leave their bags in the lockers in the second floor foyer, and to hang their outdoor coats on the hooks provided.
Borough in Prints
Explore hidden treasures in our online print collection and interactive map.
Online catalogue
With our new online catalogue you can search thousands of records from the archives of the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, covering Barnes, East Sheen, Ham, Hampton, Hampton Hill, Hampton Wick, Kew, Mortlake, Petersham, Richmond, Teddington, Twickenham and Whitton.
Cataloguing work is ongoing, and we are regularly updating the database. If you cannot find what you are looking for you can contact us.
The catalogue includes a large collection of building plans which have been catalogued and scanned with funding provided by HLF.
Online Resources
The Local Studies team publishes some of its local history notes about people and places in the borough online. There is also a set of illustrated timelines.
Amongst our online reference services, Richmond Libraries also has a subscription to Ancestry Library Edition, the leading family history website. Please note that this can only be used on library premises.
Education resources
From our Local Studies Collection, take a walk down Hill Street, a study of Victorian Richmond upon Thames.
History in action
We are a partner in the ThamesPilot project, which provides historic material from the archives and museums along the River Thames.
Genealogy and family history
Many people are interested in their family history. There are several places where you can find out information, and there are many useful links to external websites.
Miles Better health walks
Put your best foot forward and learn more about the history of Richmond upon Thames with our fascinating health walks.