Handling Materials

The staff of the Rare Book, Manuscript, and Special Collections Library are committed to making our archives available to researchers while acting as responsible custodians of these rare or unique and, often, fragile collections. We therefore ask that all our users observe certain guidelines regarding access and handling.

• Some rare book and manuscript materials are in off-site stacks and may require prior notice for prompt retrieval. If possible, call before visiting for information on accessibility of the materials you need.
• Computer catalogs and databases, card files, various guides and finding aids are available in the reference area.
• Stack areas are closed to the public and materials cannot be taken out of the Rare Book, Manuscript, and Special Collections Library.
• Researchers may bring a laptop computer, flatbed scanner, camera, or tape recorder into the reading room provided that research services staff judge that their use does not disturb other patrons or pose a danger to fragile materials.
• Pencils must be used. No pens are allowed.
• No food or drinks are permitted. No smoking is allowed in the library building.
• Researchers may examine one book or manuscript box at a time.  Manuscript folders must be kept in order in each box and items within each folder must be kept in order. 
• Materials must be handled with care to avoid damaging brittle paper or bindings.  To facilitate care, staff provide books rests for bound items, cotton gloves for researchers to wear when handling photographs or manuscripts on vellum, and folders for carrying individual pieces to the photocopier.