Special Collections and Institute Archives Reading Room Policy
The Reading Room is reserved for users of Special Collections and Institute Archives materials. Because these materials are unique, rare, or extremely fragile, we ask patrons to help us preserve these materials for future scholars by following these special handling requirements:
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Arrive at the Reading Room with clean hands, washed with only soap and water. Lotions and hand sanitizers are to be avoided before handling materials as they contain harmful residues.
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All materials in the department are non-circulating and must be used in the Reading Room.
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No food, drink or gum chewing is permitted at any time.
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All books must be used in a foam cradle. A staff member will provide you with the appropriate cradle and book weights (when needed) upon your arrival.
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Manuscript and archival materials must lie flat on the tables; do not place items in your lap or hold them up. Do not rest objects or take notes on top of materials.
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Pens and highlighters may not be used in the reading room--only pencils and laptops are allowed.
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Gloves may be required to handle some of our materials, particularly negatives, photographs, metal objects, and prints. We will provide you with these upon your arrival.
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Photographing is allowed; however, no flash photography is allowed.
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The use of cell phones (other than for photography), PDAs, and mp3 players is not permitted.
