Our collections -
Research facilities

Learn about hatting in Hat Works Information Lounge

There is space to relax, to read, and to reflect on your visit to the museum. There are oral histories to listen to, and films to watch. All of our hat books and papers have been relocated to this area, and we welcome researchers.

Hat Works has the UK’s only collection devoted to hats, and so the museum is aiming to become a world centre for research on hats, headwear and the hatting industry. Books and papers at present relate mainly to the local men’s fur felt hatting industry. However, we are consistently broadening our range, so if you are interested in any aspect of hats, we are worth a look.

Our small hat book library, and our collection of related documents and hatting ephemera is available to researchers Monday to Friday, by appointment. On the first Wednesday of every month we offer researchers the option of closing the room to the public, for quiet study. Copying facilities are available, within UK copyright guidelines. Cost 10p per A4 sheet.

View our Information Sheets below and find out more . . .