Our unique, globally significant collections comprise over 2.5 million items, including astronomical and navigational instruments, manuscripts, ship models, ship plans, coins, medals, flags, rare books, fine and decorative art, uniforms and weapons. We provide access to these collections in many ways – through our exhibitions and galleries, our library and archive, through activities and events and also online.
We receive thousands of enquiries each year so staff are only able to respond to those which relate to objects in our collections. We recommend using the library or our online catalogues for any information on our collections.
The Caird Library and Archive collections
The Caird Archive and Library is a world class resource for researching our subject areas including:
- Maritime and global history
- Navigation
- Astronomy
- Time
It is free to access you just need to register in advance for a reader’s ticket and provide the necessary identification. Find out more about the Caird Library
Digitised collections
We provide online and digital access to an increasing amount of material in the collections. Find out more about our online archives and collections
Ship plans and photographic collections
- If your research or enquiry relates to our large collections of ship plans and photographs Collections Online has specific sections for both.
- If you cannot find what you are looking for or wish to access these collections please email plansandphotos@rmg.co.uk. Please note they are not available via the Caird Library and Archive.
Object collections
If you want to view an object that is not currently on display as part of your research please contact the Collections Storage and Access Team at collectionaccess@rmg.co.uk
Enquiries
Unfortunately because of the number of enquiries we receive we are unable to carry out research on your behalf. If you have a specific enquiry relating to an item in our collections and cannot find the information you need on Collections Online please email our curators at research@rmg.co.uk.
Please note:
- We are not obliged to answer enquiries that do not relate to items in our collections. You may not get a response if your enquiry does not relate to our collection items.
- We aim to respond to all enquiries within 20 days.
If your enquiry requires in depth research we have a list of Independent Researchers who have left their names with us and may be able to carry out research on your behalf. Please note that the Museum does not formally endorse these researchers and that they will require payment for any work undertaken.
Contact the Caird Library & Archive - library@rmg.co.uk