William L. Clements Library
Reading Room Rules and Regulations
Rules and Regulations for Use of Materials in the Clements Library Reading Room
All new readers must complete a registration procedure. Readers are asked to keep their registration information current.
All bags, coat, hats, umbrellas, or other personal items must be stored in a locker or hung on the lobby coat rack. The Library receptionist will hold the key to the locker, which may be requested at any time.
Food, beverages, and chewing gum are not permitted in the reading room.
Only note-taking materials are allowed in the reading room. Laptop computers are permitted, but cases must be stored in a locker. Digital cameras are allowed according to rules and restrictions detailed on the Library's Reading Room Camera Policy (pdf). Personal scanners are prohibited. Library staff will inspect all items that readers take into or bring out of the reading room.
Only pencils may be used when taking notes. Pencils and pencil sharpeners are available in the reading room. Under no circumstances are marks to be made on original materials.
Readers are permitted to use up to three books or one manuscript box at a time. Readers must make requests for materials by completing and signing the appropriate order slips.
Materials must be handled with extreme care. Reading room staff will instruct readers in the proper handling of items. Any reader who fails to observe the instructions of the reading room supervisor or the curators may forfeit the right to use the Library’s collections.
The Library encourages full and free use of its collections for research, but access to materials may be limited in some cases. Use of materials “on deposit” but not the property of the Library may be limited. The Library will not reproduce or give permission to publish copies of items owned by other institutions. Unprocessed materials or items undergoing conservation may not be available for use.
The Library makes every effort to accommodate all research visitors, but our facilities and staffing are limited. The maximum capacity of the reading room is 8 to 10 persons, and the presence of a curator is often necessary to provide access to certain parts of the collection. On rare occasions, because of absences or meetings, the Library may close the reading room on short notice. Readers are advised to contact the library in advance of their visit.