Find and request manuscripts and personal archives

Here you can find out how to find and access the National Library's manuscripts and personal archives. The form on the page is used to request what you have searched for in our services.

How it works

Search in our search services:

Manuscripta External link, opens in new window. contains early and medieval manuscripts. Please note that the database is under construction. You can make a request by using the form below.
The nominal catalogue External link, opens in new window. is a digitized alphabetical card catalogue of the older parts of the manuscript collection. You can ask questions about the catalogue cards directly in the service but request the material they describe using the form below.
Arken, External link, opens in new window. is the National Library's service for personal archives and individual archives. You can use the service's order function or request the material described in it using the form below.
The National Archives' letter database External link, opens in new window. lists letters that are part of the library's manuscript collection. There you will find signatures and references that you use to request material using the form below.

When you have made a request

You will be notified by email when the material is available in the Special Reading Room. Please note that the retrieval process may be delayed and you are not guaranteed to get access to everything you want to see. Sometimes you may be referred to a digital copy, a facsimile or a microfilm.

Do you only have a question about manuscripts or personal archives? Please contact info@kb.se

Order form

Mail name e-mail:

Please note that parts of the material may be restricted for retrieval for preservation reasons or according to conditions set by the donor.

Specify the desired material

Be as specific in your description as possible.

Origin

Author, letter recipient, archivist, artist, photographer, etc.

Time period

Signum or reference number

You can find the signum or reference number in the catalogue entry. It consists of a couple of letters and numbers, e.g. Vf 89, L 179:1:3 or Acc.1987/67

What date would you like to have access to the material?

Please note that you need to have received confirmation before you can collect the material.

Your name * (mandatory)

Email * (mandatory)

Telephone * (mandatory)

Library card number

Please note that you must have a library card to access material from the collections.

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Free material

Many manuscripts and personal archives are available for you to explore on your own! Among our digitised collections, you’ll find everything from medieval manuscripts to letters, drafts, and almanacs.

Explore free material (link to external site)