What to Expect When You Are Going to an Archives

Catherine Oseas Champion | Archives and Manuscripts Department, Central Library 

As an archivist, people ask me quite often a. what to expect when they come in; b. what to bring; and c. what NOT to bring. Below I will answer the most common questions about visiting and researching in the Birmingham Public Library Archives.

What to Expect
Because the Archives is part of the larger public library, patrons do not have to make appointments to research using our collections. All you have to do is come during our open hours, which do differ from the main libraries.

The Central Library Archives hours are as follows:

M-F 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

We are open the second full weekend of the month. Those hours are:

Saturday 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Sunday 2:00–6:00 p.m.

Please know that while you do not need a library card to access our materials, you will have to register prior to any research.

What You Should Bring
When doing archival research it is suggested that you bring the following:

Paper
Pencils (ONLY!)
A digital camera (although phone cameras may be used without the flash)
Money for photocopies and scans
QUESTIONS! As the Archives staff is more than happy to guide you through your research to sources you may not have previously sought.

What You Should NOT Bring
Because of the delicate and unique nature of our collections, there are some rules and regulations and general guidelines for using an Archives.

You should allow sufficient time to conduct your research. All guidelines must be followed regardless of time constraints.

Documents and photographs must be handled with care and in a way not likely to cause damage. The staff will instruct you on proper care and handing.

Food and beverages, including bottled water, candy and gum are not allowed in the Archives.

Cellular telephones may not be used inside the Archives. A place is provided for phone use.

Backpacks, computer bags, briefcases, purses, and other enclosed containers; large coats and jackets; and books and other items not needed for your research may not be brought into the Archives Reading Room. Lockers are provided for you to store these items.

Pens, including hilighters, may not be used. Notes may be taken with a pencil or personal computer.

Digital cameras, without flash, are welcome to make reference copies of documents. Photographs may not be copied with digital cameras. Scanners may not be used.

All archival material must be used in the Archives. Archival material may not be checked out or taken to another part of the library.

The staff will retrieve all material for you. You are welcome to request as much material as you need but you may be limited to three files or items in the Reading Room at any time.

Researching primary materials in an Archives is fun and rewarding. We hope you will come see us sometime when we reopen.