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Visit the Archives

Plan Your Visit

Make your visit to the King County Archives more productive with these helpful tips.

Consider your topic

  • What kind of information are you trying to find? The more specific you are, the better we can help you
  • Check our FAQs and research guides for information about our records
  • Contact the Archives for a research consultation

Gather your research materials

  • Bring your notes
  • Bring a mobile device or digital camera to take pictures of records

Do I need an appointment? Maybe!

Researching Recorded Documents

You do not need an appointment to visit the Archives during lobby hours to research recorded documents. The lobby is equipped with microfilm readers/scanners for self-service research of recorded documents.

The recorded documents collection consists of property ownership records such as deeds, easements, surveys, short plats, and mortgages. We hold recorded documents from 1853 to July 31, 1991, which are available on microfilm only.

Researching Other Records

For other types of records, the Archives research room is open by appointment only.

Please contact the Archives at least 48 hours in advance to access archival records other than recorded documents. This gives our staff time to identify and retrieve records that are most responsive to your research topic.

Construction near the archives building

If you are planning a trip to the King County Archives, please be aware that there is construction on either side of the Archives building, so you may have a bit of trouble finding us. Please look for the building with the graffiti art on it. If a construction worker stops you because part of the street is closed, just let them know that you're visiting the Archives.

What to Expect

King County Archives is charged with the preservation of irreplaceable, unique county records. We hold them in trust for all King County residents and provide access. To protect these records for future generations and out of respect for your fellow researchers, we ask that you abide by the following policies.

  • Check in at the lobby desk. An Archives staff member is there to assist you.
  • The Archives provides lockers and coat racks for safe storage of your personal belongings.
  • Keep archival materials safe by storing food and drinks in the lockers near the desk.
  • Use a pencil to take notes. Pens or other permanent marking tools can deface historical materials.
  • Turn off your mobile device or put it on vibrate to avoid disturbing other patrons. If you need to take a call, please do so in the lobby or outside.
  • Ask for assistance when scanning archival materials.

Do you need accommodations when visiting?

Please let us know if you require assistive technology or accessibility accommodations. King County Archives is committed to making sure our spaces and materials are accessible for all patrons.

Duplication and Copy Fees

King County Archives duplicates the records in its holdings on behalf of patrons. See our Frequently Asked Questions for more information about these services.

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