Rules for Using Special Collections
Special Collections is not a browsing area; materials requested by patrons are retrieved by the staff for use in the reading room. Request slips and a computer for searching the online Library Catalog (catalogusmai) are available in the reading room for selecting catalogued material and the staff can assist with making selections from the collections that are not catalogued or otherwise searchable.
The materials in Special Collections are non-circulating; books cannot be checked out or taken from the reading room. All of the items in the collection are either rare, unique or hard to replace. Occasionally, the catalog will show that duplicate copies or alternate editions of books, magazines or newspapers are available in the general stacks or on microfilm. UMBC dissertations, the Baltimore Sun, and many of the more popular photography books are examples of works available in the general collection.
Photocopying and scanning of material is possible and is performed by the staff. Please refer to Rights and Reproductions for more information about reproductions and permissions.
In order to ensure that the collections will be available to future as well as current patrons, we ask that certain special handling precautions be taken. Gloves are issued to patrons requesting original photographs and only pencils or keyboards may be used to take notes. Book cradles are used to protect the bindings of published works and many items are kept in acid free boxes or envelopes. A staff member will show you how to properly handle materials.
A Special Collections staff member is present at all times. Notebooks and laptops are permitted at the tables, but all coats, briefcases and backpacks must be stored. Lockers for securing your possessions are free to use.
Finally, we realize that our hours are limited and not convenient for all patrons. If you find that you are unable to visit during the hours we are open please call 410-455-2353 for an appointment and we will attempt to accommodate you.
