Manuscripts collection - Use and handling

Using manuscripts

The materials from our collections are made available for use in research and private study. The user must assume full responsibility for any use of materials, and any materials used for academic research or otherwise should be fully credited with the source used.

When accessing the manuscript collection, readers agree to indemnify AIATSIS from and against any legal action or other like expenses incurred as a result of their use of the material for any purpose not authorised by the depositor and/or AIATSIS.

If you have contacted the library prior to your visit, some materials will be available in the Reading Room on your arrival. 

Otherwise, call slips for the retrieval of manuscript materials should be submitted to the Reference Desk.  Retrievals are every hour, Monday - Friday, starting at11:30 am and finishing at 2:30 pm.

Copyright declaration

The Library's manuscript material is deposited with the Library both for the preservation of the work and for the benefit of future researchers. On the whole, AIATSIS does not own its manuscript material and can not legally grant access or copyright permission on behalf of the depositor unless authorised to do so.

The materials from our collections are made available for use in research and private study. The user must assume full responsibility for any use of materials, and any materials used for academic research or otherwise should be fully credited with the source used.

When accessing the manuscript collection, readers agree to indemnify AIATSIS from and against any legal action or other like expenses incurred as a result of their use of the material for any purpose not authorised by the depositor and/or AIATSIS.

Handling Manuscripts

As manuscripts are original and often unique, they are irreplaceable and therefore must be treated with care and respect.

When using manuscript collections, you must maintain the material in the same order as you find it - if you notice that items are out of sequence, please notify staff.

Please do not rearrange the MS material yourself.

When using manuscript material, use a single volume or folder at a time, and then return this to the box before using another folder or item.

Do not lean on, or make notes on the top of any material. Gloves will be issued where appropriate. In some cases where the originals are fragile, you will need to use the preservation microfilm or photocopies instead of the original. Reference staff will advise when this is necessary.