Special Collections and Archives Reading Room Guidelines

The Special Collections and Archives reading room provides a place where students, faculty, staff, and the public can access the archives holdings. Archives materials do not circulate, and archives staff retrieve archives materials from its storage spaces for researchers to use in the reading room.

WiFi and Camera Policy

Guest WiFi is provided for visitors to campus. Learn how to connect here.

Digital and cell phone cameras can be used with the flash turned off for personal research use with most collections.

When you arrive

Upon arrival at Special Collections and Archives, all researchers must complete and sign the Researcher registration form. By signing the Researcher Registration form, researchers agree to abide by the rules of use for the collections.

Aside from pencils, cell phones, and laptop computers, all personal belongings must be stored separately in the space provided for such items. The use of pens, highlighters, or indelible pencil is prohibited. Pencils and loose-leaf paper are provided for use in the reading room.

Please silence your cell phone. If you need to take a call, please step outside.

Special Collections and Archives’ collections storage areas are not open for browsing. Staff members will retrieve collections you request for your appointment. Archives collections must remain in the reading room.

Some collections are stored off-site, requiring 3 business days advance notice before the materials can be made available.

Food and drink, including water, are not allowed in the reading room.

Researchers should exercise care when using material:

  • Working with archives materials is a slow process, materials take time to move through
  • Do not mark, deface, alter, fold anew, or trace on material
  • Do not place material in your lap or prop against the edge of the table
  • Gloves may be required at staff’s discretion.
  • Keep material in original order. If material seems to be out of order, note discrepancy to staff rather than editing independently.

All material must be returned to staff before leaving the Reading Room for an extended period.