We have an extensive collection of local history material at Gateshead Central Library with smaller collections at all branch libraries.
This includes books, pamphlets, original manuscripts, maps, plans, illustrations, posters and photographs. Local newspapers are available on microfilm. We also have census records from 1841 onwards.
There is space for private research with microfilm/fiche readers and computers which you can book.
We are happy to help with your enquiries. You can make an appointment to see the Local Studies Librarian, Anthea Lang.
For information about searching the historical indexes of Births, Deaths and Marriages within Gateshead, or ordering copy Birth, Death and Marriage certificates, please visit the web pages for Gateshead Register Office.
The Council also administers the Tyne and Wear Archives Service (TWAS) on behalf of the five Tyne and Wear local authorities.
The archives include local authority records such as minutes, building plans, school records; hospital records; records of magistrates and other courts; business records of all types, but especially those of important local industries like shipbuilding, engineering and coal mining, including photographs, plans and other material; church and chapel records including registers of baptisms, marriages and burials; records of local organisations; private papers of individuals and families, from every walk of life, not just the rich or important.
Further information for prospective donors and depositors, the terms of agreement for the deposit of records, and the acquisitions and disposal policy can be found by clicking on the links below. For further information about TWAS, including their online catalogue, the research and copying services, and publications and reports please visit their website by clicking on the link below.
Further details of many of these are on the archives service's own website.