Archival research is unique, because archives and special collections function somewhat
differently than other libraries. Our archives are 鈥渃losed stacks,鈥� which means that,
while you鈥檙e welcome to use the materials in our Reading Room, books and other materials
are not available to be checked out and taken home with you. Students, faculty, and staff may view archival materials by appointment only.
Some of our materials may have special handling instructions, and library staff may
have to show you exactly how to turn pages, handle photographs, or otherwise use materials
in a specific collection.
Unlike books in a traditional library, many of our items will not have exact page numbers or other ways of pinpointing information. Our collections often have a 鈥渇inding aid鈥� which describes a collection and can point you in the right direction, but may still require you to page through some collection items and spend some time with the material. Even digitized material may require additional sorting to help you find exactly what you鈥檙e looking for.
Each of our researchers must fill out a registration form, and agree to our Reading Room policies. Please review these carefully ahead of your research appointment to ensure you understand how to use our materials.
If you know what you鈥檙e looking for, check out one of our specific collections and use the finding aid to make materials requests, or browse freely in our digitized materials. If you鈥檙e not able to make it to campus, but you know what you鈥檇 like to look at, consider filling out a request for reproductions. If you still have questions, feel free to email our archival staff for more information.
Reproductions and copies are available through non-flash image capturing by the researcher or at the Archives and Special Collection Reading Room's digital scanning station and paper copiers.
Requests to use or publish any material are subject to copyright as defined by copyright law. Unless materials are in the public domain or being used under Fair Use, researchers must obtain the permission of the copyright holder and/or Marketing and Communication for use or publication. Since other legal restrictions may apply, for example privacy, staff are available to consult regarding restrictions and copyright concerns and make every attempt to facilitate use.
Researchers should acknowledge McConnell Library, Archives and Special Collections as source and owner of cited, loaned or used materials.