Reading room rules

Archives reading room rules

All readers must ensure that they:

• Turn mobile phones off/to silent
• Use pencils for writing or note taking, except when completing designated forms
• Do not remove records from the designated area
• Do not transfer records to another researcher
• Keep all noise to a minimum while working in the reading room
• Do not eat or drink in the reading room
• Do not enter “Staff Only” areas
• Do not take bags into the reading room

Archives care & handling rules

All readers are required to:

• Handle all original items with care at all times
• Not remove documents from bundles
• Not disturb the order of records in which they were issued
• Wear gloves when requested by reading room staff
• Ensure that hands are clean, dry and free from lotions that may stain and add to the deterioration of the records; staff may request that you wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling the records
• Not place objects on the records 
• Not mark any record (do not trace, highlight or underline archival material)
• Turn folios carefully one at a time, ideally from the top right-hand corner
• Ensure that volumes are fully supported at all times; ask staff for assistance if necessary
• Do not lean on archival records when writing
• Do not use items such as “post-it” notes, cardboard, pens, pencils or memo pads to mark places in archival records; ask staff for paper flags
• Report any concern to staff 
• Report any damage such as loose or torn folios, so that they can be referred for preservation treatment