In light of the COVID-19 pandemic we are currently unable to host visits to our Research Library.

We will respond to enquiries as soon as possible but we may take a little longer as staff are still working remotely and/or on reduced hours. Thank-you for your patience.

In our Research Library visitors can access a wide range of material from primary sources (e.g. newspapers, Government reports, and boat registers dating from the 19th century to the present) to secondary sources (books and journals written on various aspects of the industry).

Also available is the Museum’s large (16,000) collection of photographs and slides showing fisherfolk, boats and harbours around the coast from the 19th century to the present. Additionally we have archive material relating to individuals and businesses linked to the industry.

The library is open by appointment and is usually staffed on Tuesdays, Please let us know if you would like to make a visit.

For those unable to visit in person we operate an enquiry service open to all. Curatorial staff or volunteers will undertake specific research, based on any information that you can provide. Please download an Enquiry form or contact us.

Please give as many details as you can to help us find the information you are looking for.

In addition, we publish various information resources for researchers. You can find information on our factsheets and resources in the learning pages.