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× Winter Break:
All Library Facilities & Services CLOSED:
Sat-Wed, 12/21-1/1
Enjoy the holiday!

Sherrill Library will be closed from Dec 19 - Jan 13 due to construction.   Services by Appointment: Research Consultations, Library Instruction, Pick Up appointments

Lesley University Archives

What is an Archive?

Archive? Library? What's the difference?

Archive

  • Unique materials, primary resources
  • closed stacks
  • in-house use only
  • often by appointment only

Library

  • Published materials such as books, journals & media
  • open stacks
  • materials may be checked out
  • generally open access

Policies

Archives and special collections departments of libraries usually have very specific policies regarding access to and use of their collections. Many archives are available by appointment only.  Some archives will allow users to photocopy materials or use digital cameras, others will not.  These policies are intended to safeguard the materials in their care in order to make these materials accessible to you and to future generations of researchers. 

Archives and special collections try to balance providing access to their collections with the preservation of their materials.  It is generally a good idea to contact the archivist in advance to make arrangements before you visit.