Sandwell Council

Records and archives

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Re-opening of Community History and Archives

Sandwell Community History and Archives Service will re-open to the public on Monday 5 March at 10am. We are sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.


Collections and catalogues

The Community History & Archives Service collect and preserve the history of Sandwell. We hold original archive documents, maps, photographs, newspapers and books on the local area. 

News and Projects

We are constantly acquiring new archive collections and local history books.  We are also involved in a number of projects to make our collections more accessible.  Catch up with the latest news and see how you can get involved.


Family history

If you are researching your family history we can help you. We hold a wide range of resources you can use to trace people who lived in Sandwell. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will also be happy to advise you even if your family came from elsewhere.

Local history and heritage

Sandwell has a rich and fascinating history. Once part of the 'workshop of the world', Sandwell is the home of invention and industry. We have thousands of resources to help you find out more about Sandwell people, places and events.


Visit us

We are based in Smethwick Library and are open five days a week, including Saturdays. You are welcome to drop in, but we recommend that you contact us first as some of our material must be booked in advance.

Enquiries and research

If you can't come to visit us yourself you can send us an enquiry, request a copy of a document, or ask us to carry out some research on your behalf. A basic enquiry is free, but we do charge for copies of documents and research.


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Community History & Archives Service

Smethwick Library
High Street,
Smethwick,
West Midlands
B66 1AA

Tel: 0121 558 2561

Fax: 0121 555 6064

Email: archives_service@sandwell.gov.uk

Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Fri: 10:00-18:00 Wed: 10:30-18:00 Sat: 09:30-16:00 (Closed on Thursday)

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