Lamont Library

Handling Guidelines

Handling Manuscripts

Manuscripts are by definition unique and irreplaceable and therefore must be handled with care in order to preserve documents for future research. Your cooperation and care in handling materials ensure the preservation of their physical as well as textual integrity. Please note that certain materials may require advance notice and time to prepare for use by patrons (i.e. Many collections are housed off-site at the Harvard Depository and can take several days to recall to the Archives for use by patrons).
  • All patrons requesting to use manuscript materials must complete the Application for Examination of Collection, which the curator will have prepared upon your arrival.
  • Do not rest anything on top of manuscript material with the exception of special weights provided by the Archivists. Acid-free marking slips are available; no other material should come in contact with the documents.
  • Archival folders must remain flat on the table at all times. Contents should also remain flat and in order in their opened folder while being read. No item should be removed from the folder for any reason.
  • Manuscript leaves should be handled as little as possible and turned carefully to avoid unnecessary smudging or tearing.
  • Do not add or erase marks from manuscript materials. While researching materials, use only pencil to make notes. Do not use pens under any circumstance as pen marks are impossible to remove.
  • Gloves are available upon request and will be provided with material that is especially sensitive to damage from direct handling such as photographs, negatives and fragile papers.
  • All materials in cartons should be kept in the order that they are received. Please remove one item at a time and return it to its original position in the collection.

Handling Audiovisual Materials

Audiovisual materials in the Archives generally date from the late 1960s to the late 1980s. Because of their age, their deteriorating nature and changing technology, the use of originals is restricted. The Archives is committed to preserving the materials in such a way that makes their access possible and makes a service master available for use when one has been made. Audiovisual materials do not circulate, and viewing equipment in the library is limited, so users need to make arrangements well in advance to look at or listen to audiovisual materials.

Handling Artwork, Artifacts and Objects

Artwork, artifacts and special objects are irreplaceable and unique and must therefore be handled with care in order to preserve the objects for future research. As with manuscripts, your care will ensure the preservation of their physical integrity.

  • All researchers shall handle artwork, artifacts and other objects with gloves which will be provided when items are requested.
  • The object should be handled, turned and observed as little as possible.
  • Do not use pens while studying objects.
  • Please return the object carefully into its box in the same way that it was removed.
  • If damage is incurred or pieces lost through the course of study, please notify the staff as soon as possible.

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