READING ROOM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES – ARCHIVES OF THE BIG BEND

USER COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

All Archives researchers must read carefully and sign the separate Registration Form.

1. All containers (bags, backpacks, briefcases, folders, etc.) are to be checked in at the Service Desk.

2. Food, drinks, liquids, or possible staining materials (lotions, oils, etc.) are NOT allowed in the Reading Room.

3. Archival materials cannot be checked out or removed from the Archives Reading Room.
   1. To see materials, register and complete a call slip at the Service Desk.

4. Wash and dry hands before handling archival materials before working with archival materials.
   1. Avoid hand lotion or anything else that would leave oil or residue on the skin.

5. Handle materials with care. Never mark on, lean on, fold, or otherwise soil or damage.
   1. No tracing or writing on anything with items below it is allowed.
   2. Post-it or other sticky type notes may not be used near the materials.

6. Use pencil only in the Reading Room. NO PENS.
   1. Pencils and writing pads are available at the Service Desk.

7. Gloves must be worn when handling photographs or artifacts.
   1. Glove material (cotton, nitrile, latex) will depend on the format. Inform Archives staff of any material allergies so that accommodations can be made.

8. Maintain the order of the materials as given.
   1. Handle only one archival record at a time.
   2. Items must be kept in their existing order within folders. Folders must be kept in their existing order within a box.
   3. Turn items in a folder like pages in a book. Do not remove items from folders.
   4. Use copy order flags (available at the Service Desk) in a book or folder to signal copies needed. Copies and reproductions will be made by Archives staff only. No cameras or scanners allowed, unless previously approved by an Archivist.

9. The Archives Reading Room is a quiet area:
   1. Keep conversation low and to a minimum.
   2. Keep all cell phones and other electronic devices on silent or vibrate.
   3. No phone or video conversations.
   4. No music or videos playing without earbuds/earphones.

10. Some materials have access or reproduction restrictions. Inquire with Archives staff before taking any photos or videos of the materials.