Mass Observation Archive
An archive of everyday life, thought and feeling in Britain
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The Archive and its History
The Archive is made up of documents generated by the original Mass Observation social research organisation (1937 to early 1950s). It has collected newer material collected continuously since 1981 (Mass Observation Project). It provides a unique insight into everyday life. You can find out more about the different collections here.
Research
Research at Mass Observation takes many forms. We work with all types of researchers. This includes those interested in accessing our materials, to those who want to collaborate on questions to send out to our writers. Our research pages also contain information on publishing and referencing.
Engagement
We welcome visits from schools, community groups and University courses. We want to make the world of Mass Observation available to as many people as possible. You can find out more about the types of visits we offer here. You can also see our upcoming events.
News
- The Autumn 2025 DirectiveThis is our last directive of the year, so we’dContinue reading “The Autumn 2025 Directive”
- Event: Documenting disruption: Everyday life during times of warMO is thrilled to be part of a collaborative eventContinue reading “Event: Documenting disruption: Everyday life during times of war”
- What do you think about your hands?Our Summer 2025 directive has launched! For this directive MOContinue reading “What do you think about your hands?”
- Find us on Bookshop.org!Mass Observation is now a Bookshop.org affiliate! That means thatContinue reading “Find us on Bookshop.org!”
- Mass Observation Annual Report 2023-2024You can download the Mass Observation Archive’s report detailing theContinue reading “Mass Observation Annual Report 2023-2024”
Visit Us
The Mass Observation Archive is in the care of the University of Sussex’s Special Collections at The Keep.
Find out more about visiting here.
News
Contact
The Mass Observation Archive
University of Sussex
The Keep
Woollards Way
Brighton
BN1 9BP
01273 482349 (The Keep)
moa@sussex.ac.uk