At any repository, the staff will show researchers how to handle materials. Researchers will also be instructed on when it is necessary to wear gloves. Practices may differ from repository to repository; always follow instructions from repository staff.
Researchers should leave sleeved photographs in their enclosures and should avoid touching the emulsion surfaces of unsleeved photos. Photos should be handled individually and carefully.
Researchers will take care not to add or remove marks on the material and will not fold or trace material, write notes on top of material, rest laptops or other objects on the surface of items, or lean on materials. Researchers who damage material will not be permitted further use of the Archives and may be assessed repair fees. Any person found stealing, defacing, mutilating, or in any way destroying materials will be prosecuted.
A couple of tips:
Video created by Abilene Christian University's Milliken Special Collections
Video created by the University of Glasgow Archives Services and Special Collections
Video created by the University of Glasgow Archives Services and Special Collections
Video created by the University of Glasgow Archives Services and Special Collections