Library and Archives

Everybody is welcome to use the Great North Museum: Hancock Library – no membership is necessary. It is an open, working library for visitors to the Museum, members of the public, researchers, students, and volunteers.  

The Library contains collections from the Natural History Society of Northumbria (NHSN), The Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne (SANT) and Newcastle University’s Cowen Library. It contains books and journal titles on topics relating to natural history, local history, and archaeology. The library houses the NHSN's North East Nature Archive (access by appointment). It also has a small children’s section with books relating to the Museum’s collections. 

The Library was purpose-built during the Museum’s refurbishment in 2009 when the three collections were brought together into one library. However, the libraries of SANT and NHSN can both be traced back to the early 19th Century.

The Library is on the second floor of the Museum.

Please use the lift or stairs located at the back of the museum to get to the second floor.

The Library is wheelchair accessible and there is an accessible toilet on the second floor.

There is limited space for prams/pushchairs. Please use the designated buggy park on the ground floor.

To request material for your visit, please contact us in advance.

Please check our opening hours, or get in touch, before visiting the Library.