Given the age, rarity, and fragility of most of its collections, AAS maintains a closed-stack library. This means collection materials may be requested through the online request system My Web AAS either directly from the catalog, or after consulting finding aids, or card catalogs. Staff members will retrieve the requested items and bring them to the readers at the reading room tables. Readers may browse the collection of bibliographies, reference works, and genealogical aids shelved in the reading room.
Readers are responsible for the use and return of materials they have requested and may not lend or exchange them with other readers. All collection materials should be handled as little as possible with clean, dry hands. Books and pamphlets must be examined in book cradles.
Additional reading room policies, such as special seating and handling requirements, will be explained during the new reader orientation.
Photography
Readers are welcome to take their own photographs, for research purposes only, according to the reading room photography policies. Readers' Services staff can provide a limited number of photocopies or pdfs. Information on obtaining digital images intended for publication is available as a step-by-step guide.
Items Allowed in the Reading Room
For the security of AAS collection materials, only pencils, loose papers, notebooks, and laptops may be brought into the reading room.
A few other items are allowed, subject to the following restrictions:
- Personal books may be brought into the reading room, but must first be registered with the receptionist.
- Cameras are allowed in the reading room. However, the use of a flash, tripod, or other special equipment is not permitted.
- Cell phones may be brought into the reading room if the ringer is turned off. Please answer calls in the reception area rather than the reading room.
- The reading room is often cool, which might be uncomfortable for some readers. We encourage you to bring a sweater if you are concerned about the temperature, but we do not allow coats or outerwear in the reading room.
Items NOT Allowed in the Reading Room
- Pens
- Bags of any kind
Purses, briefcases, or any other enclosures may not be taken beyond the reception area. Coat racks and lockers are provided for outerwear and personal items.