TNA Update for UK-based Early Modernists!
I ventured to the National Archives at Kew last week (I live in walking distance), seeking Chancery and STAC files. As some ppl were getting told their records could not be produced, I figured there may be some interest in how it went? 1/

Records
First there are plenty of early modern records you are able to see on Floor 1, in the main reading room, including small-width Rolls and some petition files where they're bound within a hard-backed album.
But it isn't clear precisely which items are included.
2/

The good news is anything in a huge box, with lots of loose sheets, oversized items considerably bigger than A3, or particularly fragile (like STAC 5 and 6) *can* be viewed. There is a temporary "Map Room", in the big windowed room on Floor 1, opposite the help desk.
HOWEVER,
3/

this "Map Room":
- only has space for 1 researcher
- is first-come-first serve
- cannot be specifically requested
I'm not 100% sure whether they offer the places to those who *only* have "Map Room" files on their list - perhaps @UkNatArchives can clarify this?
4/

In terms of social distancing, the staff's customer service, cleanliness, and clarity of the new rules I'd give the TNA 10/10.
I kept my mask on at all times in the building, personal choice, and though others did not, I still felt very safe there because proper distance was
5/

being maintained, and there was good access to cleaning materials.
Unlike the BL (as far as I could tell), TNA is providing an indoor and outdoor eating area for visitors to eat their packed refreshments during the day.

This has been your Researcher Review for Covid-19!
END/