Using Special Collections

?Special Collections? at the J. Robert Van Pelt Library refers to library materials kept in the locked shelving area of the library.  To preserve and protect these unique or fragile materials and documents, users are expected to follow these guidelines:

• Special collection materials are identified in the JRVP Online Catalog as assigned to one of the following locations as seen in these examples. Note: Special Collections are not part of the MTU Archives & Copper Country Historical Collections.
  
  
  
  

• Request the material at the Circulation Desk located on the first floor of the library.  The item?s call number, SuDoc Number or Serial Set number will be needed for retrieval. 

• Reference librarians are available at the second floor reference desk to assist patrons in identifying the necessary call number(s).

• A valid Michigan Tech Express card or JRVP Courtesy card is required to use materials.   

• Materials from the Special Collection are for in-building use only.  Materials are to be used in the reading area near the newspapers on the first floor.

• Materials are checked out to users for three hour blocks of time.  Three renewals of three hours each are allowed during a day. 

• All Special Collection materials must be returned one hour before the library closes.

• Return materials to a Circulation staff member at the desk. Do not place materials in the book return slots.

• Overdue items will result in overdue and lost item notices being generated on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd days.  Lost fines and processing fees will be charged to the patron for any item 5 days overdue.

• Treat the materials with great care. 

• Food and drink are not allowed near Special Collection materials. 

• Use only computers or pencils for note taking.

• Compliance with copyright law is expected.

• Copies of portions of the material may be made for personal use by non-contact means.

• Photocopying is permitted only for non-fragile items. If in doubt about the material?s condition, please contact the Head of Access Services prior to photocopying.