Accordingly, readers must observe reading room guidelines for handling research materials. Whenever a collection is available in microcopy or other facsimile, readers must use copies instead of the originals. Top What to Bring Readers may bring only personal computers into the reading room. The reading room staff will provide pencils and note paper. Pens, notebooks, and folders, as well as backpacks, briefcases, bags, and outer clothing of any kind are prohibited in the reading room.
Free lockers are available to store personal property.
The library staff must approve any special equipment in advance of bringing it into the reading room. The Massachusetts Historical Society will photocopy research materials from the collections with some restrictions. The staff will make copies of printed materials not protected by copyrigh t depending on the physical condition of each item. Researchers must fill out a photocopy request form listing all manuscript items they wish to have copied. Library staff will review the request for approval and will photocopy materials as time permits.