Who may use the Archive

Faculty, staff, students and designated researchers may consult archival materials with the authorisation and assistance of RALS staff. External researchers may apply for access in writing, explaining the purpose of their research.

Archival retrieval requests

Step 1, Check the finding aids: see what is held before you visit. The Archives Division is preparing finding aids and source guides for its main collections.
Step 2, Submit a request: complete the archival access request, describing the materials you need and the purpose of your research.
Step 3, Confirmation: staff confirm what is available, any restrictions that apply and an appointment time.
Step 4, Consult: consult materials in the designated area, under supervision for fragile or rare items.
Digitised materials: may be consulted through the Library’s online platform after user authentication.

Reading room rules

Appointments: consult archival materials only by appointment and in the designated area.
Belongings: bags, coats, food and drink stay outside the reading area.
Writing: use pencils only; pens, markers and highlighters are not permitted near archival materials.
Handling: use the protective equipment provided, such as gloves and supports; turn pages gently and keep items flat on the table.
Order: keep items in the order in which they are delivered and do not remove anything from folders or enclosures.
Supervision: fragile and rare items are consulted under staff supervision.
Non-circulating: archival materials never leave the Archive. Special collection items in the K4 Corner are for use in the Corner only; borrowing is permitted only in exceptional cases with written permission.
Sensitive materials: sensitive and culturally sensitive materials are handled with discretion, and access may be restricted in line with data protection, copyright, intellectual property and consent obligations.

Reproduction and citation

Prior approval: copies of archival materials may be made only with prior approval, and limits apply to the reproduction of sensitive materials.
Photography: personal photography is allowed only where staff have approved it, and without flash.
Charges: reproduction for external users may be charged under the RALS Fee Schedule.
Citation: citation of archival materials is mandatory in all published work. Finding aids and source guides show the correct form of citation.

Access to research records

Research records held under the Research Centre Guideline are released only on written request approved by the Head of the Research Centre. Access to deposited research data is restricted to what the consent given by participants allows.

 Request Access to Research Records   

Digitisation guidelines

Digitisation reduces handling of originals and widens access. The Archives Division follows these guidelines:
Approved list: items are digitised only from an annual digitisation list approved by the Library Committee.
Clearance first: no item is digitised until legal clearance and the necessary permissions have been obtained.
Priority: priority goes to fragile and deteriorating items, materials in high demand for research and teaching, and items of particular significance to Bhutan’s legal heritage.
Master and access copies: master files are kept securely; access copies are made available through the Digital Library and, from 2028, the Legal History and Heritage collection in DLIN.
Requests: researchers may propose items for digitisation. Proposals are considered for the next annual list.

 Submit a Digitisation Request     Download RALS Archives Guideline     Finding Aids     Ask an Archivist