Reading Room Regulations

How can I access items in the collection?

Please search our online catalogue to determine the items you would like to consult, and then request a Reading Room appointment, giving at least seven days’ notice. Subject to the availability of items and our staff, we will write back to confirm your appointment or offer an alternative date.

If you have not used our Reading Room before, we will ask you to fill out a Reader Profile form, and may request references or proof of identity.

What are the opening hours of the Reading Room?

The Reading Room is open every weekday 09:30–13:00 and 14:00–16:30, by appointment.

What should I do when I arrive?

First, sign in at Reception. We will show you to lockers where you can store your coat and bags, as only your notebooks, pencils, laptop and mobile phone may be taken into the Reading Room.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, but please keep it silent, and take any calls outside the Reading Room. You are welcome to use headphones as long as they are inaudible to others.

Can I photograph or photocopy items?

We don’t usually allow photography of primary items, but if you feel you need to take photographs please discuss this with our staff, ideally before your visit. The use of scanning equipment isn’t permitted.

We can provide images or arrange new photography for a variety of purposes including private study, teaching, and commercial reproduction.

Readers may photograph or request photocopies of secondary texts within copyright limits, paying a charge. Not all volumes may be suitable for self-service copying.

Size	Colour	Price
A4	Black and white	Assisted:
A4	Colour	Assisted:
A3	Black and white	Assisted:
A3	Colour	Assisted:

What should I do if I want to take a break?

The Reading Room closes between 1pm and 2pm for lunch. The room will be locked over this time, so you can safely leave your notes and laptop if you wish.

If you want to take a break at another time, please tell a member of staff that you are leaving. They may ask to inspect your belongings if you are taking them with you.

While we don’t allow food and drink, including bottled water, inside the Reading Room, readers are welcome to use our staffroom or one of the many cafes and restaurants on campus.

What should I do when I have finished?

Please tell a member of staff that you are leaving, and sign out at the reception. They may ask to inspect your bags, notebook or laptop as you depart.

How should I handle items?

Staff will explain how to handle any items you have requested, but in general you should:

• Make sure your hands are clean
• Use only a pencil to take notes
• Don’t mark or write on items, or rest your writing paper on them.
• Make use of book supports and book weights
• Turn pages from the top, and don’t force the binding
• Keep loose papers in the order in which they were issued
• Ask if you need to use a bookmark or open uncut pages
• Report any damage as soon as it happens

I have a different question which hasn't been answered here.

Please ask, by e-mailing the-ruskin@lancaster.ac.uk or calling 01524 593587.