Sag Harbor History Room
Policy and Procedures for Use of Rare Material
Material found in the History Room is often irreplaceable and fragile. For this reason, it must be handled with special care and attention. Items from the History Room collection must be used under the direct supervision of a librarian.
Each user will be required to sign a form indicating that they understand and agree with the conditions of use. In general, the materials from the History Room are available to any person whose research justifies the use of unusual, fragile, and irreplaceable materials. Every request is judged on its own merits. An appointment is necessary for all users as it enables us to prepare material for viewing. Class visits can be arranged. The collection cannot be browsed.
Privileges are granted subject to the following rules:
- A request form must be filled out for each item to be consulted. In general a reader will only be given one item at a time.
- Readers are required to present government-issued photographic identification and a reasonable explanation of their need for use of the material.
- No extraneous personal materials will be allowed on the table with rare items. All personal items should be placed on the floor beneath the table before using this material.
- The material should be left flat on the table at all times, and should not be leaned on, written on, traced, or in any way handled where damage could occur. Unnecessary handling, especially of manuscripts, should be avoided.
- Each item will be checked prior to use and after use to be sure there is no damage, markings, etc.
- Photography is allowed provided the flash is off.
- Only pencils or a laptop may be used to make notes.
- Library staff members reserve the right to search briefcases, book bags, satchels, and folders before a researcher leaves the premises.
- Food and drinks are not allowed in the library.
Request Form
To make an appointment to use or view materials in the History Room, please complete and submit the registration form or write to us at: John Jermain Memorial Library History Room, 201 Main Street, Sag Harbor, New York 11963. If you write, please be sure to include all the information requested below.
Efforts will be made to arrange an appointment date and time suitable to the patron and library although no requested date or time is guaranteed.
Adapted from the Birmingham Public Library and Boston Public Library policies for use of rare materials. |
