Kent History and Library Centre

The Kent History and Library Centre is purpose built to protect and give people access to more of our archive material, and to provide a 21st century library in the heart of Kent. It houses around 14 kilometres of historic material relating to Kent dating back to 699 AD and is the place to come for anyone interested in local history. There is a community history area, archive search room, digital studio and a large space for displays and events.

Collections

 * baptisms, marriages and burials beginning in 1538
 * trials and courts back to the 1300s
 * families, estates and manors back to the 13th Century
 * maps beginning in the 1500s
 * photographs and prints from the 19th Century onwards.

Search the online catalogue Kent Registration Services Online - births (1992-2002), marriages (1837-2002) and deaths (1992-2002)

Related repositories
Many local history groups and museums also hold local historic material. For information relating to the Medway area contact the Medway Archives and Local Studies Centre and for information on Canterbury Cathedral visit the Canterbury Cathedral Archives.

History
The new centre opened in April 2012 to incorporate under one roof the Centre for Kentish Studies and Maidstone's Central Library.

Visiting the centre
Visitors are advised to book in advance if you wish to consult original records. Once in the Centre, check in at the enquiry desk at the back of the Community History section (left side of the building). You will be given your desk number and locker key. Only pencil, paper and/or a laptop can be taken into the searchroom beyond.

Address
Kent History and Library Centre James Whatman Way Maidstone ME14 1LQ