#  Collection Access 

 



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Please see our [borrowing procedures](/node/1637404) for more information about borrowing items from our circulating collections. See our[ hours and location](/location-hours "Hours & Location") for details on where we are.

The Wolbach Library and the Plate Stacks are located at the Center for Astrophysics. However, many records and special collection items are stored off-site. *Please* [*contact us*](/staff-directory "Staff Directory") *at least two weeks prior to visiting to ensure that records can be made available upon arrival.* Researchers visiting Wolbach Library must abide by the below Visiting Researcher Rules and handling practices.

Please note: researchers may only schedule work with special collection materials *Monday-Friday from 9-5pm.*

## Visiting Researcher Rules

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Researchers staying one day in either Wolbach Library or the Plate Stacks:

- Please write to [library@cfa.harvard](mailto:///library@cfa.harvard) with a specific research request *at least two weeks prior to your visit.*
- Please abide by our special collecitons handling procedures below.

### Extended research visits to the Plate Stacks: 

- Visitors coming to the CfA for more than one day will be required to fill out a few forms in addition to abiding by the rules for one-day visitors:
    - [Visitor Participation Agreement](https://research.harvard.edu/2021/02/17/intellectual-property-policy/#vpa)
    - [Acknowledgement of Risk and Release](https://cpb-us-e1.wpmucdn.com/websites.harvard.edu/dist/6/18/files/2020/07/acknowledgement_of_risk_and_release_form_3_14_19.pdf)
- You will need a sponsor within the Center for Astrophysics who can sign a sponsorship letter for you. Please let us know if you need help identifying a sponsor.

## Handling Special Collections

- Special collection materials can only be physically handled in support of specific research needs.
- Special collection materials may only be consulted in designated spaces and may not be removed.
- Absolutely no food or drinks are allowed in the proximity of special collection materials.
- The use of pens is not permitted while handling special collection materials. 
    - Pencils will be made available to you.
    - The use of laptops is encouraged.
- Any equipment (e.g., a light source) that rests directly on collection material is not permitted.
- Researchers must show all books and papers to Wolbach Library staff whenever they leave the Library.