The ZSL archives
The Library of the Zoological Society of London also houses ZSL’s archives which range from manuscript minutes to computer print-outs.
Amongst the many and varied items, we have the Council minutes from the very first meeting of the Council in 1826 (with the signature of the first President Sir Stamford Raffles), memorabilia of Jumbo the elephant, Zoo tickets, song sheets about popular Zoo animals, past guides to ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, press cuttings and letters from Darwin and Barnum.
The archives have not been fully catalogued, and so finding specific information can be time consuming.
A project to list the archives is currently being carried out. However, it is still in the early stages of development and only has a small number of archives listed on it at present.
You can use the ZSL online library catalogue to view items currently listed.
How do I access the archives catalogue?
When you first arrive at the start page you are in the book catalogue. At the top of the page on the left, there is a link that says SWITCH DATABASE. Click this. A pop-up will ask you to select a database. Choose ARC, and click the SWITCH button. You are then in the archives catalogue.
You can use a number of methods to search the catalogue. The easiest is to type one or two keywords into the Simple Search. This should produce a list of archives; just click the link to be taken to the full description.
To browse lists of subjects and people, use the ‘Browse search’ option. Then choose ‘Subject’ or ‘People’ from the drop-down list under ‘Look for’. Either leave the field blank to start from A, or put in the first few letters of the subject/name you are looking for. Then you can browse down through a list of subjects or names. Tick the box of the subject you are interested in and click ‘find’.
When you are in the record, if there is a word or name highlighted as a link, you can follow the link to look at more descriptions with the same index term.
What do I need to make a note of?
Please write down the Reference, e.g. GB 0814 XDARW.
I can’t find what I’m looking for in the archives catalogue; does this mean you don’t have it?
Not necessarily. The archives have only been partly catalogued and so may not be listed. Contact the archivist to see if there is any uncatalogued material.
Can anyone use the archives?
Yes, just bring along proof of address (this is essential).
Will I need to make an appointment?
Please tell us when you are coming in advance, as the archivist may not be available.
Can I use ink pens or biros next to the archives?
No, pencils only please.
Can I use my laptop?
Yes
If you would like to use the archives, or have something to offer to us, please contact the archivist, Michael Palmer, at library@zsl.org.
Please make an appointment in advance of your visit. It is essential to bring proof of address and photo ID.
Please read the Regulations for Special Collections:
Library Regulations for Special Collections