Use Policies

  • All users must show current photo identification.
  • Food and drink are not permitted.
  • Keep the records in their present arrangement. Loose pages will stay in order if turned like pages in a book.
  • Please use only one folder of materials at a time.
  • Make no marks, erasures or other changes to the records.
  • Use pencil only; the use of ink is prohibited.
  • Photocopying and scanning are permitted if in accordance with donor agreements and copyright restrictions, unless the item is fragile or too large. Photocopying is done by archives personnel.  Scanning may be done by archives personnel, or permission may be given to researchers to scan items.  Always speak with personnel first. Contact Special Collections for fee schedule.
  • Materials are for reference use only. The user agrees to publish no portion of them without the written permission of Missouri State University Libraries, and assumes sole responsibility for any infringement of the literary rights, copyrights, or other rights which pertain to these materials.
  • The materials may not circulate outside Special Collections.
  • Theft, destruction or mutilation of library materials is a crime (MoRS 570.200-570.215)
  • Citations should follow this format: identification of the item, name of the collection, Special Collections and Archives, Missouri State University.
  • All materials in Special Collections must be used in the Reading Room and cannot be checked out.

Suggestions For First Time Visitors

  • Bring a method of note-taking that does not involve ink; we do not allow pens and some items may be too fragile to photocopy or scan.
  • Photocopying and scanning are done at the discretion of archives staff. Contact Special Collections for fee schedule.
  • Patrons should have their University or other photo identification available.
  • Complete call number information is necessary when requesting a book. This information can be obtained by consulting the online catalog.
  • Research in primary sources is often time-consuming, so allow adequate time to use special collections and archives materials. It is advisable to consult secondary or published sources before beginning research in primary sources.
  • Prior to visiting campus, researchers are encouraged to contact Special Collections to discuss research needs.  Contact prior to a visit can result in a more efficient research experience.
  • Visitor parking information is available online.