Ask a Librarian | AHTL

Harvard Divinity School Library provides access to non-circulating materials in special collections (rare books, pamphlets, and archival collections) by providing or facilitating reproductions to patrons in a way that limits potential damage to materials while providing equitable services in an environment of limited staff resources. 
 
Complimentary in-house reference images are limited to 150 (unbound materials), 25 (bound materials) per request. Patrons may make two requests per year. 

• In-house reference images are generally taken with phone or iPad camera and are not formatted.  
• In-house reproduction is only permitted if the condition of the material allows it.  
• When the library has a microfilm copy or a digital surrogate already exists, a scan from the microfilm or link to the digital copy will be provided instead, unless there is demonstrated need for images from our special collections copy. 
• Requests for reproductions of audiovisual materials are considered on a case-by-case basis.  
• Reproduction requests are fulfilled as staff time allows, though most in-house requests are completed within 2-3 weeks. Local patrons may find it more expedient to visit in person. 

The library will inform patrons if complimentary images cannot be provided. In such cases, patrons have the option to have their requests fulfilled through Imaging Services. Requests will be routed through Imaging Services under the following conditions: 

• The size of the request exceeds the in-house limits 
• The requested material is fragile or has been assessed as requiring special handling 
• The request is for publication quality images 
• Patron is aware of the associated costs to be billed directly by Imaging Services 
• The request is for a copy of a dissertation (See instructions for ordering dissertations, including prices)