Special Collections and Archives 101

Please do not be put off by the rules of the archive you are visiting. We need to have some rules in place as we must preserve the rare and unique materials in our care for future generations to enjoy.

General Rules

• Researchers are asked to register/check in and show a picture ID each time they conduct research in the Reading Room
• Food, drink, or tobacco use is not allowed in the Reading Room
• Researchers and visitors are asked to sign the register each day when entering and leaving
• All coats, handbags, briefcases, backpacks, purses, etc. are to be placed in lockers provided
• Researchers may take research related tools (notepaper, computer) to a table in the research area. These items may be checked by the staff before the researcher leaves
• All materials should be returned to the Reference Desk no later than 15 minutes before closing and no further items will be paged after that time

Handling materials

• Special Collections & Archives materials do not circulate and may only be consulted in the Reading Room
• Please handle materials with care to avoid damage
• Gloves may be necessary when handling certain materials, such as photographs or other delicate materials
• Please be gentle with our books. Do not force books open, place open books face down, or place objects on top of them
• Only pencils may be used

Arrangement

• Manuscript materials are stored in a specific order. This arrangement of papers and folders must be preserved. Please do not remove materials from the folder without permission
• Please check with staff if you want to copy any materials.Permission is granted on an item-by-item basis
• Staff will advise how to identify items to be copied