A brief introduction to the who, what, when, and how of archives at CSUDH as well as some important "dos and don'ts."
Food, drinks, and the use of pens are not allowed during your research. Backpacks or other items should be stored in a locker. You may use pencils, laptops, and paper during your time in the reading room. Photography without flash is permitted with the permission of the archives.
The department will advise you on how to handle collections. Special handling may be required for fragile items. In general, a single folder from a single box can be viewed at any given time. Items in folders are to be kept in the order in which they are sorted. Materials are to remain flat and the desktop surface. This is especially necessary when handling fragile items, or items that customarily are held in different ways, such as newspapers. We do not require gloves when handling manuscript materials, but if gloves are required, we will provide white cotton gloves during your research.
Please consult with staff before taking photographs or making copies of research materials.
When in doubt, ask us! Archives & Special Collections is here to help introduce you to primary source research and guide you in a successful research experience!