Library and Archives

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• What do the Commonwealth Secretariat Archives contain?
  The records date from 1965 when the Secretariat was established, and document the work of the organisation.
• Are all the Secretariat records open to the public?
  No. All internal records produced by the Commonwealth Secretariat are closed to public access for 30 years. After this time the Secretariat reviews the files and in consultation with member governments decides which files should be open to public access. Details of all records open to the public are listed on the Archives website at http://www.thecommonwealth.org/Internal/157082/archives/
• What do you stock in the Library?
  Books, periodicals and reports on Commonwealth countries in the areas of gender, development, economic affairs, management, education, health, youth, environment and politics. We have a collection of publications produced by the Commonwealth Secretariat. In addition, we also keep materials from international and Commonwealth organisations.
• Who can use the Library?
  Academics, researchers, students and the general public can use the Library by making prior appointment with the Librarian either by email to library@commonwealth.int or telephone +44 (0)20 7747 6164. Some form of identification would be required for security purposes.
• Can I borrow books from the Library?
  Only Commonwealth Secretariat members of staff are allowed to borrow books, but external users can come in to read and/or photocopy. [Please note that copyright law applies]
• What are the Library’s opening hours?
  The Library is open to the public from 10.00-17.00.
• Where is the Commonwealth Secretariat Library based?
  The Secretariat Library is located in Marlborough House.

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