Request Onsite Use of Special Collections

Special Collections are non-circulating and can be accessed in-person in the designated reading room. Our collections are searchable within the Archival Collections, WorldCatUM, and UMD Catalog databases. 

See descriptions below of how to submit requests for onsite use of Special Collections materials. If you are unable to visit in person, review our duplication services for remote access options.

Appointments are required to consult Special Collections material in the Maryland Room in Hornbake Library and encouraged in other reading rooms. 

Special Collections materials may be stored offsite, may be part of an unprocessed collection that requires screening, or contains restricted files. These materials will take additional time to make available in the reading room.

Find materials Schedule an appointment

WorldCatUM and UMD Catalog

  • Locate items in WorldCatUM or the UMD Catalog
  • Click on "Request from Special Collections" 
  • Verify that the item information is correct
    • Include specific volume, issue and/or date information, if applicable
  • Add additional information in the "Special Requests" field  
  • Choose a date for your visit
  • Click “Submit Request”

For more detailed instructions, consult our How to Request Special Collections Materials Guide.

Archival Collections 

  • Locate items in the Archival Collections database
  • Click "Request Box”, located at the top of the record
    • If the "Request Box" option is not available, the collection may be unprocessed and requires staff assistance
    • Contact us to request material from unprocessed collections
  • Click “Request Box” again to confirm your box selection 
  • Select the request from your list of "Unsubmitted Requests"
  • Choose a date for your visit
  • Click “Submit Information”
  • Start the process for each archival box you plan to consult

For more detailed instructions, consult our How to Request Special Collections Materials Guide.

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