Special Collections Policies

Special Collections Use

Special Collections items are rare and fragile. Anyone using Special Collections items  agrees to abide by the following rules to help us preserve the collections.

  1. Anyone using Special Collections items must create an Aeon account, and present a photo ID. 
  2. Materials must be handled with care, according to the instructions given by Special Collections personnel.
  3. Materials may not be removed from the reading room.
  4. Food and drink are prohibited.
  5. Pencils are the only writing utensils allowed.
  6. Bags, coats, and other personal items must be stored separately from Special Collections materials. We strongly recommend personal items not be left unattended in the reading room.
  7. Photographs of materials may be taken without a flash for private use. Other reproductions may be requested through an Aeon account.

Research Services

Special Collections staff work one-on-one with the community to provide access to the collections. Anyone can make a consultation appointment via email at kslspecialcollections@case.edu or by phone at 216-368-0189.

Exhibit Viewing

Exhibits in Hatch Reading Room change regularly. All are welcome and encouraged to view exhibits during open hours. Exhibit viewers are asked to keep noise levels down.

Quiet Study

Hatch Reading Room is a designated quiet study room. All are welcome to use the room for this purpose, however, if seating becomes limited, those using Special Collections materials will be given preference.

Hours of Access

Hatch Reading Room hours are 10:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday - Friday for exhibit viewing and quiet study. Appointments to use materials in the reading room are available Monday - Friday, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm. The room may, at times, be closed for instruction sessions or other meetings that require the use of the room. Changes to reading room hours are posted on a sign outside the reading room door.