William L. Clements Library
Doing Research at the Clements Library
Please note: The Clements Library renovation project starts July 2013, during which time the Library will relocate staff and collections. For more information, see the Renovation Project Update page.
Use of the Library
The Clements is open to all serious researchers who have a need to consult its collections. No appointment is necessary, but the staff always appreciates advance notification of an intended visit, especially when a reader wishes to consult with a particular curator. No fees are charged to use the material for research and no institutional affiliation is required. New readers must complete a registration process and present two pieces of appropriate personal identification, including at least one with a photograph. All Clements Library rules and regulations must be observed.
The Clements is a closed-stacks, non-lending library, and all research is conducted in the reading room located on the Library’s lower level. Curators are available for consultation and are happy to assist readers with initiating their research.
Accessing Collections
Collections records for the Library’s books and a significant portion of the map collection are accessible on Mirlyn, the University of Michigan’s electronic catalog. Mirlyn may be searched for Clements Library material alone or for all library collections of the University. Records and finding aids for manuscript collections are accessible through the Manuscripts EAD page or Mirlyn.
Computer terminals for accessing Mirlyn and hard-copy finding aids are available in the reading room.
Readers complete call slips and research material is delivered to the reading room. Requests for materials are accepted until 45 minutes before closing time.
Copies
Whenever possible and appropriate, the Clements Library will make copies of collection materials. Full details of reproduction policies and fees are available. Limited personal digital photography is permitted under some circumstances and with approval of the Director or senior curators. See the Library's camera policy (pdf) for more information. The Library does not copy entire books or collections or permit the deposit of copies of its materials in other institutions.
Funding for Research
The Clements Library offers several one-week Jacob M. Price Visiting Research Fellowships for graduate students and junior faculty and a number of longer-term fellowships for extended visits of one to four months’ residence by senior scholars. See full descriptions and application information on Clements Library research fellowships.
Accommodations
Although Ann Arbor is an expensive city, the Ann Arbor Area Conventions and Visitors Bureau includes affordable options, including motels and bed and breakfast establishments. Assistance in finding accommodations is also available through the University of Michigan Campus Information Center.