Security and Copying Policies

Security/Locker Policy

For security purposes, patrons using the Reference Library, Newspaper Library and Photograph Collections are asked to leave coats, jackets, briefcases, backpacks and similar articles in the lockers at the south end of the main corridor.  Only items such as paper, pencils, notes and laptop computers are allowed in these areas.  These items, plus any jackets or sweaters worn when the rooms are cool, will be subject to search by Society personnel upon departure.   The lockers require a $0.25 coin deposit which is returned when the patron uses the key to retrieve his or her belongings.

Camera Policy

Patrons may use cameras, with the permission of the staff, ONLY in the Reference and Newspaper libraries. For security reasons, camera bags and equipment cases are not allowed in either library. The State Historical Society staff reserves the right to prohibit the photographing of a particular item based on its condition. Patrons are responsible for observing copyright law.

Photocopying Policies

All copying in the Reference Library is handled by staff. The Society reserves the right to limit the copying of works that are fragile. In the case of copyrighted works, the Society reserves the right to refuse to accept a photocopy orderif, in the judgment of the Society, fulfillment of the order would be in violation ofcopyright law.   For preservation reasons, some items in the State Historical Society may not be photocopied.   Items that may not be photocopied include: title pages, pages from indexes, city directories not on microfilm, items in rare book collections, oversize books, selected irreplaceable county history books, books in very poor condition, tightly bound books that do not open flat, and books printed on newsprint or other poor quality paper.

While the Society attempts to provide prompt photocopy services, same-day service cannot be guaranteed.

All photocopy orders by individuals must be paid for in advance.  Institutions requesting to be billed for copies will be charged an additional $5.00 invoice fee for each copy order. Please note: The following charges are applied in addition to, and not deducted from, any research or usage fee charges incurred.