Q. Can I take photographs or scan collections from the AU Archives & Special Collections?

Researchers are highly encouraged to take their own flash-free reference photos of collection materials using cell phone cameras or personal digital cameras. 

• Researchers are not permitted to bring a scanner, tripod, or professional photography and lighting equipment. 

• Researchers may not move furniture or stand on furniture to take pictures. 

• Researchers must handle items properly while photographing i.e. cannot remove items from folders or mishandle fragile items and books 

In-person researchers may request up to 50 pages to be digitized by Archives staff per semester. 

• Deliverables will be completed within 14 business days. 

• PDF scans only for text-based items 

• The archive will hold copies for one month, then will be deleted. 

We reserve the right to deny photography rights and reproduction requests based on condition, value, size, known restrictions and copyright, and donor agreements. Restrictions in donor agreements associated with certain collections may prohibit reproduction for personal reference use and commercial uses.  

For more information on the access policy, visit the Archives and Special Collections page. 

For further questions, please email archives@american.edu