Reese Library Augusta State University Special Collections User Policy
Who may use Special Collections
Materials in Special Collections are for the use of Augusta State University students and faculty, the members of the Augusta-Richmond County Historical Society and all other users who agree to abide by Reese Library Special Collections terms of use.
What is available and when
Special Collections holds material on the history of the University, the history of Augusta and the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) as well as genealogical sources. For more information on our collection ask to see our Collection Development Policy.
We also house the Augusta-Richmond County Historical Society Collection by agreement with that organization. Materials belonging to the Augusta-Richmond County Historical Society are designated by RCH in the location symbol.
Material is available to researchers Mon.- Fri. from 9:am to 4:30 pm. Walk-ins are welcome but researchers are encouraged to call for a research appointment and to verify hours as the opening hours are subject to change.
Community users can use the library catalog, manuscript finding aids, and other appropriate electronic resources through the public use computer stations in Special Collections and Reference while in the Library. Faculty, students, and community users may use the Special Collections station or their personal computers while in the Special Collections room. Special Collections staff is glad to assist researchers in the use of the catalog and other resources. Our staff is too small to conduct significant research for individuals. We suggest that you contact a local researcher or the Georgia Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists and request their Genealogical and Historical Researchers list.
General Rules for Use
- All manuscripts and rare materials will remain in Special Collections. Books may be used in reference if Special Collections is closed. See After Hours Use below.
- Patrons will sign the visitors log.
- Patrons will not bring food or drink into Special Collections.
- Patrons will take notes with pencil and paper or with personal computers.
- Patrons will store belongings such as backpacks and handbags on the designated shelving. Special Collections does not guarantee the safety of personal items. Coats may be hung on the coat rack.
- Reproductions are allowed by photocopy or flashless digital photography under the direction of staff. Photocopies will be made on the paper provided by Special Collections. Patrons should be aware that there is a charge for photocopies. Patrons are reminded that under the definitions of fair use, they can copy 10% of a work or one chapter whichever is less.
- Books will be replaced on the designated carts. Manuscripts and rare materials will be checked and returned after use by the staff.
Manuscript Use
The Manuscript Room and all storage areas of Special Collections are accessible only to Special Collections staff, designated Library staff and the executive director of the Augusta – Richmond County Historical Society. The general public is not permitted access in these areas.
Researchers will sign the manuscript use log. The researcher agrees to handle all materials carefully and to follow instructions regarding handling given by Special Collections staff. Unbound materials are to be kept in the order in which they are received. To prevent documents from becoming misfiled, only one folder may be open on the table at a time. The folder should be replaced in its proper place in the manuscript box before another is removed. Gloves will be worn when handling originals of photographs or at the discretion of the staff. Book supports will be used at the discretion of the staff.
Citation and Copyright
We strongly suggest the following citation style be used for original materials. Citation styles requested by instructors or publishers should take precedence.
Manuscripts
[ item], [folder title], [series title (if any)], [collection name], [name of curatorial unit*], Augusta State University, Augusta
Photograph Captions
[description of image], [identification number or name], [name of curatorial unit*], Augusta State University, Augusta
*curatorial unit is either Reese Library Special Collections or Augusta - Richmond County Historical Society
The library cannot be held accountable for copyright or literary rights infringement. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that copyright and literary rights are upheld. Citation credit must be given by the researcher in all publications or products. For any use not limited to personal research and study, a permission to publish form must be signed by the researcher and approved by the Special Collections Librarian or their designee.
After-Hours Use
Special Collections hours are Mon. – Fri. 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. Books (up to two volumes) can be used after hours in Reference provided arrangements are made with Special Collections by 4:00 pm on the day of use or 4pm on Friday for use on Saturday or Sunday. Manuscripts and rare materials will not be used anywhere but Special Collections under the supervision of staff. If a researcher must have access after hours, staff will make a reasonable effort to accommodate a researcher provided an appointment has been made at least a week in advance.
Researcher Agreement
Patrons will sign and date this user agreement to indicate that they have read and understood the Reese Library Special Collections User Policy. All signed policies will be kept on file for one year or the first day of the Spring academic term whichever comes first. A copy of this policy is maintained on our website http://www.aug.edu/~liblsc/User_policy_2010.pdf or can be provided by request.
For questions, contact Special Collections by e-mail at spcoll@aug.edu or by phone at (706) 667-4904.