Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
What is the CERN Archives?
The CERN Archives preserves and provides access to the historical records documenting CERN’s scientific, technical, administrative, and cultural activities from the Organization’s creation in the early 1950s to the present day.
What types of materials do you have?
The collections include correspondence, reports, photographs, technical and scientific documents, meeting records, administrative files, and other materials related to CERN’s work. The Archives also houses the Wolfgang Pauli Archive.
I see that you have many documents and photographs – do you have any objects?
We have a small number of objects, but most of CERN’s historical objects can be found in the Heritage Collection.
What is the Wolfgang Pauli Archive?
The Wolfgang Pauli Archive contains correspondence, manuscripts, photographs, books, and other materials related to the Austrian Nobel Prize-winning physicist Wolfgang Pauli.
Can I donate or transfer materials to the Archives?
Yes, we are always interested in receiving CERN materials. Please contact us at archive.enquiries@cern.ch !
Access & Research
Who can consult the Archives?
The CERN Archives is open for research to everyone, subject to access restrictions and availability. For further information, please consult CERN’s Archives Policy.
How do I search your materials?
The CERN Document Server (CDS) is a searchable database with files in the CERN Archives and the Wolfgang Pauli Archive. The CERN Archives guide and Wolfgang Pauli Archive guide give overviews of the collections. Many of our finding aids may be found in AtoM.
Are the archives available online?
As explained above, many catalogue records are searchable online, and some collections have digitized content available. However, a significant portion of the archives remains available only through on-site consultation.
Are all of your records open for research?
No, there are different restriction periods, per CERN’s Archives policy. For instance, a 30-year closure period applies to most documents that are not purely scientific or technical; this applies, for example, to files containing administrative documents and correspondence, as well as certain scientific material.
How can I view the collections?
Please contact us to schedule a consultation visit at archive.enquiries@cern.ch ; we look forward to seeing you at CERN!
Can I publish materials from the CERN Archives and/or Pauli Archive?
Permission requirements depend on copyright status and the intended use. Researchers must contact the Archives before publication.