On first use of the University Archives, researchers will complete an application form. The information given will be reviewed by archives staff from time to time, and updates may be requested.
Archives Security
Coats, hats, briefcases, packages, umbrellas, packs, handbags, and all other personal property must be stored in the lockers provided. Cell phones should be placed on vibrate. Patrons should leave the reference room when answering calls to avoid disturbing our researchers.
All collection materials will be consulted only in the reading room. Before leaving, researchers should let the staff member on duty know if a follow up visit is required or if material can be re-shelved. (Arrangements may be made to reserve materials for continued use in the near future.)
The Archives may limit the number of items a researcher may request at one time.
Material Preservation
Eating, drinking, chewing gum and use of any form of tobacco is prohibited.
Only soft-leaded pencils can be used. The use of pens, markers, or indelible pencils is not permitted in the reading room.
The researcher is responsible for the careful handling of all materials made available. Manuscripts, photographs and books may not be leaned on, written on, folded, traced over, or otherwise handled in any way that may damage them. No marks may be added or erased.
Manuscripts and archives are to be maintained in the order in which they are received by the researcher. Material which appears to be out of order should not be arranged by the researcher, but should instead be brought to the attention of the staff member on duty.
Fragile materials require special handling; in some instances, the researcher will be asked to use supports, cradles, or stands, and/or gloves while using fragile materials.
Archives Services
Reference assistance as well as assistance in using catalogs, databases and collection finding aids is available.
Microfilm readers, audio, and video equipment are available for use of non-print media. Advanced notice is required for equipment to be available.
Photoduplication of archival materials is available in most instances. Ask the staff member on duty about reproduction of materials. Photocopying and scanning is available for a fee and is completed by the archives staff. No photography, (including videotaping), is permitted in the archives without permission. For more information, visit Our Services page.
Citation Format
-
Processed Material:
The Ohio State University Archives, Name of Collection (record group number), Box number, "File Folder Title."
Example: The Ohio State University Archives, William Oxley Thompson Papers (3/e), Box 47, "University Library: Rules: 1903."
-
Unprocessed Material:
The Ohio State University Archives, Name of Collection (record group number), Box number, "File Folder Title," Accession number.
Example: The Ohio State University Archives, John T. Mount Papers (40/113, 54/d), Box 1, "'Happiness is Being a Buckeye' pin: 1974," acc. 96/2007.
-
Centennial Histories:
Author, Chapter Heading. The Ohio State University Centennial Histories, College, Year.
Example: Herrick, John H. and William J. Griffith, History of the Division of Campus Planning. The Ohio State University Centennial Histories, Division of Academic Affairs, 1969.
-
Photographs:
The Ohio State University Photo Archives, Image number (or Drawer number, Folder number).
Example: The Ohio State University Photo Archives, Image X1711.
Example: The Ohio State University Photo Archives, Drawer 82, Folder 10.
Other Policies
Other conditions or restrictions may apply to the use of special collections. Please see a staff member on duty for more information.
Because of the nature of the reference rooms and materials in special collections, researchers are asked not to bring children with them while they conduct their research.