Accessing the Western Cape Archives

Researchers may conduct research during opening hours: Monday to Friday 08h00 and 16h00.

Upon arrival at the Western Cape Archives and Records Service you will be required to complete the Visitors Register, in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), 2013 (Act 4 of 2013). You will also be provided with the rules and regulations before entering the Reading Room. You will be allocated a locker to store your belongings. The reading room official at the front desk in the foyer will assist you.

To conduct your research please bring a pencil and paper. Ink pens are not allowed when working with archival records. You may bring your laptop and plug-points are provided. You will be directed to the Reading Room where you will be assisted by Archivists who will be able to assist you with your research.

Reading Room rules at the WC Archives:

• Always maintain silence in the Reading Room, please. We ask that researchers respect the rights of others to work quietly
• No cell phones are allowed in the reading room unless permission is granted. A locker will be provided for your bags and personal belongings. The relevant procedure will be explained to you on entry in the foyer
• Research assistance is provided at the counter in the Reading Room
• You may order three documents at a time, only one document allowed on your table, the remaining two will be on the front table under your table number
• Please sit facing the counter
• Pencils are available at the front desk in the foyer. No pens allowed

Rules regarding photocopies:

• Copies are to be discussed with attending members of staff in the Reading Room
• An order for copies must be placed before 15:30
• Copies will be certified and emailed (an email address must be provided when completing work order in the Reading Room)
• Only one certification per document
• Payment must be made in cash at the Registry Office in the foyer
• The waiting period for copies is 15 working days

Contact details for the Western Cape Archives and Records Service:

Switchboard: 021 483 0400

Reading Room: 021 483 0405/06

Email: Erika.leroux@westerncape.gov.za

Postal address: Western Cape Archives and Records Service, Private Bag X9025, Cape Town, 8000

Street address: 72 Roeland Street, Cape Town