Imperial War Museum Research Facilities

Les Pickering

The Museum welcomes approaches from members of the public for research and study purposes. Its resources include books, documents, film, maps and photographs. In terms of subject matter they cover not only Naval, Army and Air Operations, but also the social, political and economic aspects of conflict in the twentieth century.

Visitors using these facilities should be aware that matters of relevance to their studies may be found in one or more of the departments listed below.

The Department of Art is responsible for paintings, drawings and the large collection of posters.

The Department of Documents holds a growing collection of documents of primary source material, largely composed of British private papers and captured German records.

The Department of Printed Books holds well over 100,000 books as well as drawings, maps, etc. Of particular interest to members seeking relatives who were killed during the 1914/19 war, is a complete set of soldiers killed during the conflict and its aftermath. Each Corps or Regiment has its own volume. The soldier is listed by name and number, date and place of enlistment. The amount of information varies, but birthplace and next of kin are included.

THE MUSEUM DOES NOT HOLD SOLDIERS' DOCUMENTS OR MEDAL ROLLS, THESE ARE IN THE PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE AT KEW.

The Department of Photography has a vast collection of photographs and will supply copies. People wishing to use the research facilities must first write or phone for an appointment to: