Study room

1. What is the Reading Room

The Reading Room is a space dedicated to the direct consultation of archival documents held by the Cagliari State Archives.
Scholars, students, and members of the public can access original sources for historical, legal, administrative, or cultural research.
Consultation is carried out in accordance with heritage protection regulations and with the support of archival staff, who ensure that materials are used correctly.

2. Intended audience

The Reading Room is open to:

• scholars and researchers (both professional and amateur)
• university students and graduates
• members of the public interested in consulting the sources
• professionals attending for work or research purposes

Access is granted upon registration.

3. Materials available for consultation

In the Reading Room, it is possible to consult:

• original archival documents preserved by the Cagliari State Archives;
• inventories, guides and other research tools;
• supporting materials for consultation.

Consultation covers archival holdings and series spanning a wide chronological range, from the Middle Ages to the present day, in accordance with confidentiality rules and legal access restrictions.

4. Consultation procedures

Consultation takes place according to rules established to safeguard the heritage:

• documents are requested through the research tools;
• consultation is personal and must take place under the supervision of staff;
• only a limited number of units may be consulted at a time;
• documents are delivered in line with the service’s timings.

Reproductions are not made directly in the Reading Room.

To obtain digital or photographic copies, users must contact the Photo reproduction Service

5. Research Support

Staff in the Reading Room provide:

• guidance on using research tools
• assistance in identifying series and archival holdings
• methodological support for consultation

The service does not provide research on behalf of users, but it guides them in the responsible and informed use of the sources.

6. Code of conduct

Once registered as users, access to the Reading Room is free of charge.
In order to register, users will need:

• a valid form of identification;
• a completed consultation admission form.

Registration is valid for one year and grants access to the Archive’s consultation services.
Consultation of documents is subject to compliance with a few essential rules:

• proper handling of the materials
• compliance with staff instructions
• Compliance with heritage protection and safety regulations

Compliance with these regulations is a prerequisite for continued access to the services.

7. Practical information

8. Useful links