Adler University Library Archives: Using the Archives

Please keep the documents in the order in which you received them. Do not remove individual items from files, volumes or boxes or attempt to re-file the items in your preferred order. Some archival materials within the collections may be fragile. There are some general practices that should be followed by anyone handling these kinds of materials:

• wash your hands before you start working and avoid using hand cream
• do not lick your fingers when turning pages
• avoid leaning on or touching the document, use a paper marker to follow the text
• handle photographs by the edges, and use cotton gloves when available

While working with documents:

• ensure you are not holding them while reading and make sure they do not hang off the edge of your desk while reading
• turn pages with care
• do not put items on top of them
• use a soft leaded pencil for notes

Material in the archives may only be used within the Library and cannot be checked out or removed from the Library. Excluded from this rule are theses and dissertations, which may be checked out by students and faculty for up to two weeks.

Use of all audio and VHS tapes will be handled on a case-by-case basis depending on condition and format.  Many VHS tapes will need to be converted to DVDs before being used due to rarity and condition.

Physical condition and restrictions on the use of certain material may affect the ability to reproduce material through photography, scanning, photocopying, or other means of reproduction. Adler University will not copy an original item that is deemed too fragile to survive the handling required for copying, or any item in which copying will likely produce further deterioration. If an item is in good condition, it may be photographed, scanned, or copied for academic purposes. Condition determinations and all reproductions will be made by Library staff. The Library reserves the right to charge a small fee for copies.