Visiting archives

Introduction

Archives in the Netherlands are public and accessible for free. The employees are available to ask questions, but they do not do the research for you. Most of them understand English, but it is wise to bring someone along who speak Dutch to interpret the documents for you. Some archives have a genealogical correspondent who will do research for a fee.

Photograph

The Dutch archives have many old documents. Frequently used documents are available in self service on microfilm or in xerox copies in the study rooms. Other documents are available only as originals. You may be asked to wear cotton gloves to protect the documents.

Reproductions

It’s possible to get a paper copy of most of the documents you see. For the self service microfilms or xerox copies, you can usually make your own copies. Many of the original documents may be photocopied by the employees of the archives. Very old or delicate documents may not be copied but usually you can order photographs of these. The costs of reproductions can vary from archive to archive.

About Yvette Hoitink

Yvette Hoitink, CG®, QG™ is a professional genealogist in the Netherlands. She holds the Certified Genealogist credential from the Board for Certification of Genealogists and has a post-graduate diploma in Family and Local History from the University of Dundee. She has been doing genealogy for over 30 years and helps people from across the world find their ancestors in the Netherlands. Read about Yvette's professional genealogy services.

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