We're no longer accepting face-to-face visits
We're moving our collections to Stockroom, a universal learning and discovery space at the heart of Merseyway, due to open spring 2025.
There may be a delay in answering emails as we complete this work.
Stockport Libraries holds an extensive collection of original and unique archival materials.
Our archives record over 500 years of Stockport History, from Tudor times to the present day. These are invaluable to anyone wanting to research any aspect of the history of Stockport. They include deposit collections from the local authority and other public bodies such as religious, family and business records.
Two of the biggest and most important collections are those of Stockport Sunday School. It was once the largest Sunday School in the world. Also, Christy’s Hat Works, one of the town’s biggest employers for 175 years.
Many of the records are one of a kind. They're vital to understanding Stockport’s cultural history and the heritage of its people. Visit the Local Heritage Library to browse through the archive index. You can also discover a growing number of records in our online catalogue. Contact us if you have any research queries.
The collection is managed by a professional archivist with the help of the Local Heritage Library staff. The collection is continuously growing. The collecting policy of the Archives Service is straightforward; to collect, preserve and make documentary material accessible for public use that relates to the present day Stockport Metropolitan Borough area.
If you're interested in donating anything to the archive collection please contact the Local Heritage Library on 0161 474 4530. Alternatively, email localheritagelibrary@stockport.gov.uk.