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Archives & Special Collections

Learn about CSUMB Archives and Special Collecitions

Visiting the Archives at CSUMB

Unlike the library's regular collections, items from the archives do not circulate. All archival material must be viewed in the Archives & Special Collections Reading Room. In order to protect and preserve the rare and unique material found in the archives, there are certain guidelines that must be followed by everyone using the reading room, even if they are not handling any of the archival material.  

Reading Room Guidelines and Material Handling

General Guidelines for Using the Reading Room

The department's holdings are unique and rare, so we ask patrons to help us preserve these materials for future scholars by following these guidelines:

  • No food, including candy or gum 
  • No drink, including water
  • Pencils only
  • Only items needed to take notes are allowed in the Reading Room
  • Laptop computers are allowed
  • Place other personal property on the shelves
  • Practice cell phone courtesy by turning off your ringer and take calls outside

​Rules for Using Archival Materials

  • Researchers are permitted to use one box and one folder from the box at a time. The folders and the documents in each file must be kept in the exact order in which you found them. 
  • All materials must remain flat on the table at all times. Do not rest items on the materials, make any marks on materials, trace over materials, or affix extraneous items such as Post-It notes.
  • Please report to the staff any concerns about the material, such as mistakes in filing or damage. Comply with any staff instructions regarding materials, and do not rearrange materials yourself.
  • Gloves may be required to handle some of our materials, particularly negatives, photographs, metal objects, and prints. A staff member will provide you with gloves should you need them.
  • All inquiries concerning reproductions must be referred to the staff
  • When you have finished your research, please inform a staff member
  • Failure to comply with these regulations will result in a suspension of reading room privileges