Introducing a new Somerset Archives & Local Studies Booking System
We are excited to announce the launch of a new booking system for visiting the Archive and Local Studies searchroom at the Somerset Heritage Centre. Launching in June for appointments from 1 July 2026 onwards, the new system is integrated with our online archive catalogue, allowing you to pick the documents from the catalogue which you would like to see and then link them to your booking.
What You Can Do
You will now be able to:
- Book a whole day, morning or afternoon session without having to make multiple visits to the booking system
- Request up to four pre-ordered documents per session, linking the items directly from the online catalogue to ensure that the documents you would like to see are awaiting your arrival
- Register with the site, so you only need to add your contact details once
- Manage your booking – change the day, add or remove a session, change your document requests, or cancel your visit
- Book a companion to visit with you
Visit our online catalogue and make a booking.
Guidance
We know it can be tricky switching to a new system so we have put together a step-by-step guide which you can find here. Paper copies will also be available at the Heritage Centre so please feel free to pick one up on your next visit.
We will also be running four drop-in familiarisation training sessions at the Somerset Heritage Centre, where we will demonstrate the system and answer any questions. No need to book, just come along and have a chat!
These sessions will be:
- Tuesday 9 June, 2.30pm-3.30pm
- Wednesday 17 June, 11am-12noon
- Tuesday 23 June, 10.30am-11.30am
- Thursday 2 July 10.30am-11.30am
When working with the developers to create the new system, we aimed to make it as easy to use as possible, and we hope that you find it so, but, any questions, queries or feedback, please do not hesitate to speak to one of the team.
Booking
Please note, that we are open on Saturday 11 July, 9am-1pm, and bookings for research visits are now live via our current Eventbrite booking system. Bookings for our Saturday opening on 10 October 2026, and any future Saturday openings will then be booked via the new booking system.