Review these tips before visiting the University Archives in the Killam Memorial Library or the Agricola Collections at the MacRae Library. It is also a good idea to review our glossary of archival terminology and learn about proper techniques for handling archival material.
Researchers are invited to contact the Archives for orientations to the archives collections and for assistance locating material.
You will need your DalCard or some form of Photo ID to gain access to materials in the University Archives. Staff require that you leave your ID card at the desk while you look at the archival material.
If you want to photocopy materials from the University Archives, bring some change with you. We charge 25 cents per page. Researchers are not permitted to bring archival materials out of the reading room, so the University Archives staff do the copying for you. Your DalCard or guest photocopy cards will not work in the University Archives.
Although food or beverages cannot be consumed in the Archives and Special Collections Reading Room, it's a good idea to bring snacks on your visit. Archival research can be time consuming. Snack bars, raisins, and fruit provide much-needed energy to get through long visits. Food and drink may be consumed in other areas of the library and university.
Archival research is time consuming. It is also most successful when you have a clear plan for how to take notes during the visit. Notes should include: