Visiting the University Archives

Grace and Edith on dairy steps.Frequently Asked Questions about the University Archives

Do I need an appointment to visit?

Walk-in visitors are welcome. You may also contact the Archives to schedule an appointment outside our regular hours. It is always a good idea to contact us ahead of time to let us know what materials you are interested in viewing. That way we can have them ready for you when you arrive. We do occasionally close the archives for various reasons such as staff meetings, holidays, etc.

There is research I would like to do, but I'm unable to come to Bristol. Do you offer research services?

Inquiries may be submitted via phone, e-mail, fax, and post. Please be as specific as possible when requesting information, as limited staff time prevents us from answering broad research questions. Typically your request will be completed within one week. Please read the section on Photocopy Fees and Permission for additional information.

Can I make copies of print material and photographs in your collection?

Yes, in most cases copies can be created, depending on the size, format, and condition of the original item. However, researchers are not permitted to make their own copies. See our fee schedule for costs associated with reproductions of paper records and photographs.

Can I check out books or other materials?

The University Archives is a non-circulating collection open to the Roger Williams University community and the interested public. Materials must be used in the Archives reading room.

Could you send me a copy of my transcript?

The Archives does not have these records. Information on how to request a copy of your transcript can be found at http://www.rwu.edu/about/administration/registrar/transcripts/.

How do I cite items from your collections?

[Name of item], [Name of Collection], University Archives, Roger Williams University, Bristol, R.I.

Duplication Fees and Permissions

Photocopies, In-House and Remote Requests (black and white prints only):

  • $0.10 per copy, up to 25 copies
  • $0.25 per copy, for more than 25 copies
  • An additional handling/mailing fee will also apply to mail orders.

Scanning:

  • $1.00 per image for RWU affiliates
  • $5.00 per image for non-RWU researchers

Research:

There will be $10.00 per 1/2 hour research fee for all remote requests, beyond 30 minutes, in order to cover staff time for identifying and retrieving the material. There will be an additional handling/mailing fee. All prices are subject to change without notice.

Copyright Regulations

The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of the copyright law. The granting of permission to publish by the Archives does not absolve users of materials from securing permission from copyright owners and payment of such additional fees as the owners may require if the Archives does not own copyright or if the material is not in the public domain. Applicants assume all responsibility for questions of copyright and invasion of privacy that may arise in copying and in the use made of the photographic copy.

Please contact the Archivist with inquiries on other rules and regulations.