FCT approves new Regulations for Access to its Archives and Library

The Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) has approved new Access Regulations for its Archive and Library service, with the aim of consolidating and updating the rules for consulting, accessing, and reproducing documents and bibliographic resources. Regulation (excerpt) No. 1079/2025 was published in the Official Gazette on September 19, 2025, and came into force on the day following its publication.

This regulation reflects FCT's commitment to preserving and disseminating Portugal's scientific and technological heritage, ensuring access to a vast collection of documents and bibliographic resources. The FCT's Science and Technology Archive (ACT) brings together historical and contemporary documents related to science and technology in Portugal, while the Library provides specialized resources in areas such as science management and policy, institutional history, and the history of science.

Among the main changes are clear rules for accessing and consulting documents, which can be done in person by appointment at the FCT premises at Av. D. Carlos I, n.º 126, in Lisbon. The regulations also define rules for the reproduction of documents, home loans, and reuse of information, ensuring compliance with legal provisions on data protection, copyright, and reuse of administrative documents.

Customer service will be provided by specialized technicians, and users must comply with specific rules of conduct and document handling in order to preserve the integrity of the collection. The FCT also offers additional services, such as document digitization and support for documentary and bibliographic research.

For more information on the regulations and access procedures, interested parties can consult the ACT website or contact the service directly at arquivo@fct.pt.