Archives or Special Collections libraries have some general procedures. These vary, but be aware that you may be asked to do things that may seem unusual compared to using a regular library.
- You will be asked to store your personal belongings in a locker or other designated area and to finish and/or discard any open food or beverage you have with you before entering the reading room.
- In most instances, you will not be allowed to wear a bulky coat or bring a jacket into the reading room with you.
- You will be asked to register upon arrival.
- You may be asked to show a current form of identification. Some places required a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport); others may accept a student ID card; some places no longer ask for ID.
- The stacks are "closed." You will need to identify what you would like to use and request the materials ahead of time. Upon arrival, a staff member will bring the materials to you.
- Generally, you are allowed to use only item at a time; this may be a single book or single box of documents, or a single folder from a box.
- Materials must be used in the reading room. You will not be able to check them out and take them home or to your office. You might be allowed to scan or take a digital photograph of an item, but policies vary. Be prepared to sit and transcribe the document.
- You will generally be supervised by staff while using materials because many of them are unique or fragile.
- Your materials, including notes, may be searched by staff when you leave.