Accessing university information
There are various options for searching and accessing information relating to UNSW.
Finding and accessing current University records
The University’s recordkeeping system, RAMS, is used for the capture and management of existing University records and is available to all UNSW staff.
Staff can:
- search for records through the RAMS interface and request delivery of hardcopy records
- request a search be conducted by Records & Archives staff.
Finding and accessing Archives
UNSW staff can also search for archival records through the RAMS interface, while all users can visit the Online Archives Search page. A small selection of the digital photographs held by the Archives are also available for searching and viewing via the Digital Collections site.The Historical Resources section of the site provides scope on the range of secondary source material that relates to the history of UNSW.
Please note that only a proportion of the Archives is currently registered in any of the above online search options and a full search of our holdings will require you to contact the Archives. Staff can advise you on archival records that may be of use to your query, as well as guidance on the use of the collection.
Archives' staff cannot, however, undertake lengthy research on your behalf. If your enquiry is likely to require detailed research and you are not able to use the Archives in person, we advise you to obtain the services of a professional researcher who can conduct the research for you. The Professional Historians Association of NSW and the Society of Australian Genealogists may be able to refer you to professional researchers.
Visitors and access to the Archives
If you wish to visit the Archives to undertake research you MUST contact us to arrange an appointment time for your visit.
Entitlements to access records held by the Archives vary and it is essential that you discuss your enquiry with an archivist to determine whether records will be available for your use.
The Archives' Access Guideline provides information on obtaining access to records held in the Archives, while the UNSW Access Directions indicate which types of official university records are open or closed for access.
See our Reading Room Rules for information on the usage of the Archives during your visit. Please note that you cannot take your bags into the Reading Room. Laptops are permitted.
Scans or photocopies of archival records can be made, provided the records are not too fragile to be copied. A copyright form will also need to be completed. For further information on copying see Reproduction, Citation & Publication of Archival Records.
Accessing rare books/theses/non-UNSW newspapers
These items are not held by the Archives and are all managed by the UNSW Library - go to the Library Catalogue or the Library's Thesis Information webpage.
In this section
Request a full search
Archival records are not necessarily registered in RAMS and a search will require the assistance of an archivist.
Have a question?
Contact the Records Team on 02 9385 2861 or email records@unsw.edu.au / Contact the Archives Team on 02 9385 2906 or email archives@unsw.edu.au