Research Policy and Procedures

General Information

Most of the collections of the Frederick D. Hill Archives are open to all researchers who may profit from the use of their holdings. Each researcher must fill out a registration form for every research project undertaken in order to establish his/her identity and to assist reference service by defining the research topic. By signing the registration form, each researcher signifies that he/she has read these guidelines and thereby agrees to abide by its policies. Each researcher must register every time.

The Archives is committed to making all materials available for use as soon as possible. However, the Archives recognizes the right of donors to place reasonable restrictions on the use of their materials to ensure individuals' right to privacy. Unprocessed materials may also be withheld from use.

As a security measure, the Archives prohibits the use of briefcases, book bags, large handbags, books and notebooks at the research table. Such items of personal luggage, excluding valuables, must be placed on the floor by the table before a researcher may be seated. Only note paper and pencil may be taken to the table. The Archives reserves the right to inspect briefcases, book bags, large handbags, books and notebooks. Laptops and phones are permitted, however, videorecording with these devices is prohibited.

Procedures

1. Archival research will be conducted on site under the Archivist's supervision. No items will be loaned off site for research purposes.

2. Please be aware of the unique and often fragile nature of archival items. Make no marks on the materials. Please do not write notes on top of materials or rest books or other objects on the face or surface of items used. Please handle loose sheets or book pages by the edges. Tracing is not permitted. Food and drink are strictly prohibited, however water in a sealed container may be kept on the floor by the table.

3. It is extremely important to preserve the existing order and arrangement of unbound material. Report any disarrangement to the Archivist. Do not rearrange items yourself.

4. Material left temporarily on the table should be replaced in its container and all containers and volumes should be closed before leaving the Archives.