Library
Carisbrooke Castle Museum has a significant collection of local books for the public to use. Titles began to be acquired by the Museum when it was founded by Princess Beatrice more than a century ago.
The collection now comprises more than 2,500 books and leaflets, ranging in date from the 17th century to the 21st, including directories, guide-books, topographical books and publications on local history topics. There are a number of titles relating to Charles I, some of which date from the 17th century. Most of the books have been acquired as gifts, often as bequest from local collectors. Particularly noteworthy is the Guy and Zirphie Parsloe Collection.
We are keen for the library to be used, and welcome researchers. Please contact the Museum should you wish to visit, and we will happily arrange a suitable time.
Research
Carisbrooke Castle Museum welcomes research enquiries and visits. Please email info@carisbrookecastlemuseum.org.uk or phone 01983523112.
Research Enquiries
Many research enquiries can be undertaken by submitting a request by email or phone. We are able to search our collections database and provide information and where appropriate photographs or scans. These are usually supplied free of charge (please see information about supporting our work below).
If you require images for publication or other commercial uses please get in touch as a charge may apply.
Research Visits
If you need to view objects that are in store, or undertake more extensive research of our catalogue or in our library, you can make an appointment by contacting us by email of phone.
Please be aware, all research visits much be booked in advance, we are unable to answer in-person enquires without a prior appointment.
Support our Work
Carisbrooke Castle Museum has a very small curatorial team with a part-time Curator supported by a part-time Assistant Curator and Collections Volunteers.
We are happy to answer research enquiries or facilitate research visits because we want to ensure our collection is shared as widely as possible with the public.
These can take a significant amount of staff time and we would be very grateful if researchers would consider making a donation to help support the museum’s work.
Click the button below to make a secure online card transaction through PayPal (no PayPal account required).