While we do not offer a copying or research facility, listed below are some questions we are regularly asked and our advice on solving them. Web links to the institutions mentioned below can be found on our links page.

How do I go about locating a news article?

Firstly, establish the approximate date when the article appeared. Then, think of whether the story was of national or local importance.

If the story was of national importance, it might have appeared in a daily title. In this case, the three best collections of Scottish National Titles are in the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh, the Mitchell Library in Glasgow and the British Library Newspaper Library, London.

Alternatively, the story might only be of local significance. Here, you should identify the geographic area where the person lived or the story occurred and approach either the local library service or one of the three collections listed above.

We cannot comment on whether the above libraries would do research before you come to Scotland, i.e. over email or whatever. However, they will all assist you when you are here.

Where can I get some information on a deceased relative?

While newspapers do have informal records through their 'announcements' columns, the best place for an official record is the General Register Office.

Is it possible to locate records of emigration?

One answer might be to contact organisations in the Scottish Diaspora. Otherwise, local archives close to the port of embarkation might be useful, however the General Register Office would be best.

How can I get a copy of a newspaper for a definite date?

The three libraries listed in question one would assist here.