In many cases students who are part of a class will not be allowed to photocopy from the records. In cases where a specific group of records is being used classes may be asked to work from photocopies of the originals to decrease the wear and tear on the collection. Bibliographic Instruction in the Use of Primary Sources The Archives and Special Collections Staff is available for in-class instruction on finding and using primary sources. Presentations can be tailored to particular subjects. The Archives and Special Collections welcomes requests from researchers by telephone, mail and e-mail.
Researchers can generally expect responses within one to two weeks of submitting a request.
Due to limited staff the Archives and Special Collections can only devote 30 minutes to any one request. If the request is complicated, the reply may consist only of confirmation that the information is available to answer the question. In such cases it is up to the researcher to make arrangements to either do the research or hire an outside service to do the research. Individuals wishing to visit the Archives and Special Collections are asked to call ahead and make an appointment. All photocopies are made for one-time personal use by the researcher.