Visit Special Collections

Planning a Visit

We are located on Lower Level 1 of James G. Leyburn Library. During the academic year, we are open to researchers Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm, unless otherwise noted. Please be sure to check our website to confirm our open hours before your visit.

Research appointments are not required, but patrons are encouraged to contact us before an in-person visit in effort for us to better assist with researcher needs.

For driving directions to the library and parking information, see go to the Directions to the Library page.

For other local information, please see the University's Resources for Visitors page.

Before You Arrive

We recommend consulting with Special Collections prior to your visit to ensure that you get the most out of your time.

Register as a researcher: This one-time researcher registration process is easy. You will create an online research account you can use to request material for use in the reading room, make digitization requests, and track the status of your requests. Researchers do not have to register prior to an on-site visit, but they will be required to register before accessing our materials.

Reading Room Guidelines

  • Items within Special Collections and Archives are non-circulating. Use is only permitted inside the reading room.
  • Ink pens, markers, highlighters, food, drink (including bottled water), and gum are not permitted. Pencils will be provided for patrons who do not have one.
  • Patrons will leave all personal possessions inside a locker with the exception of cell phones, laptops, or a photo camera. Outerwear not in use must be placed inside a locker or in the coat closet.   
  • Personal scanners are allowed at the discretion of the Special Collections and Archives staff, however, handheld scanners are strictly prohibited.
  • Patrons must handle collection material with the utmost care as directed by staff and with clean hands. 
  • Cell phones should be turned off or set to vibrate. Cell phone conversations may not take place within the reading room.
  • Photographs of collection material for personal, research use is allowed. Flash photography is prohibited.