Guidelines for Research in SCUA

Special Collections and University Archives materials are available for use in the Special Collections Reading Room, and do not circulate. Special Collections & Archives staff retrieves all collection materials from its stacks and other storage spaces for researchers. To prepare for your visit, please review our Reading Room Guidelines below.

  • Materials in Special Collections and University Archives are non-circulating, and may only be consulted when the department is open. Materials requested 15 minutes before close will be available the following day.
  • Researchers must complete a Researcher Registration Form and present a current form of government-issued photo identification. Students of CSULB or any other CSU may present a Student ID card. 
  • Researchers must store personal belongings such as backpacks, purses, briefcases, computer cases, and loose articles of clothing at the front of the room, away from research tables.
  • Notes should be taken with the pencils and paper provided by reading room staff or with personal digital devices. Ink pens and mechanical pencils are strictly prohibited.
  • Digital and cell phone cameras can be used with the flash turned off. Photos are for personal study only. Permission to photograph does not constitute permission to publish.
  • Please respect others in the reading room. If you need to talk, please keep your voice low.
  • Please silence your cell phone. If you need to take a call, please step outside.
  • No food or beverages, including water, are allowed at the research tables.
  • Special Collections & Archives reserves the right to inspect all research materials and personal articles before researchers exit the reading room. 

Using Materials:

  • If necessary, reading room staff will provide specific handling instructions. Cotton or nitrile gloves will be provided as needed.
  • Keep materials flat on the table at all times. Please do not lean on, write on, mark, fold, erase, or trace over collection materials.
  • One box or book is allowed for consultation at a time. The exact order of documents, folders, and unbound materials must be maintained. Only one file folder may be removed from a box at a time. When removing a file folder, please insert the “Out” card or placeholder provided to mark your place.  Use the flags provided as place markers for duplications.
  • If you discover mistakes in filing or damage to materials, please alert Reading Room staff.  Do not rearrange materials yourself.
  • Please let Reading Room staff know when you have finished working. If you plan to return, we can hold materials under your name for one week.

Please contact Special Collections & Archives staff with any questions prior to your visit at LIB-Archives@csulb.edu.