Digitisation of archive and library material

The Surrey History Centre is able to offer an A4 and A3 flatbed scanning and camera based digitisation service, which can be used to provide copies from a wide range of archive and library material.

For current charges please see our Surrey History Centre table of fees.

Each item will be assessed as to its suitability for copying. The following information is provided as a guide:

  • The text on some documents may not be easily legible. Every effort will be made to provide copies to the highest standard possible for research needs.
  • It may not be possible to provide copies of documents in certain formats, or those which are damaged or are in a fragile condition.
  • It may not be possible to copy documents which have been stapled, pinned or tied together.
  • Be aware that if a document is heavily folded or tightly rolled and cannot be safely held down, creases and shadowing may appear in the copy.
  • Special arrangements can be made to include seals, but as documents containing these cannot be held down creases and shadowing may appear in the copy.
  • Tightly bound, damaged, very heavy or large bound volumes may be unsuitable for copying.
  • There may be some restrictions in copying very large maps and plans.
  • Where documents have been previously microfilmed, copies will still be available from our microfilm printer. Digitised copies of these documents may be provided on request.

Surrey History Centre Digitisation of Archive and Library Material Terms and Conditions

  • Digital images will be provided according to current copyright law and where compatible with conservation guidelines.
  • Prepayment and the completion of forms of undertaking (Request form numbers 4A and 4B) are required prior to the provision of digital images.
  • A 'while you wait' service is not available.
  • We offer printouts and/or electronic images on CD or sent via WeTransfer. Printouts are available on A4 or A3 size format, in black and white or colour, on basic paper (see price list).
  • Digital images will normally be supplied at a standard 300dpi (dots per inch) resolution in jpeg format. Images will be printed to fit A4/A3 size sheets unless otherwise requested.
  • A permission to reproduce/publish form may be required if the printout/digital image on CD is intended for purposes other than private study.
  • We reserve the right to charge the full price of any incorrect item supplied as a result of the information given by the customer.
  • We will not accept responsibility for delay, non-delivery or damage incurred by Postal Services.
  • We reserve the right to change the prices as published.
  • We offer a turnaround time of a maximum 10 working days from receipt of payment and completed order form.
  • The turnaround time does not include public holidays during which the Surrey History Centre is closed. The turnaround is also subject to equipment failure and staff absences. Difficult to handle material, large orders and special requirements will fall outside of the advertised turnaround time and prices, and will be agreed with the customer.
  • Digital images will be stored electronically for one month from the date of completion of an order. After a month the images will be deleted.
  • If the digital image supplied is of a poor quality for any other reason not related to the condition of the original item, we would offer a replacement copy without any additional cost to the customer.

To order digital copies please contact Surrey History Centre.

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