Visiting the MHS Library
MHS Research Library renovation: Important news and information affecting research and visitation. Read more.
The Maine Historical Society Research Library welcomes the use of its collections by historians, writers, educators, students and genealogists. Visiting the Library is truly a unique experience where you can see one–of–a–kind material about Maine's history and people. MHS works to collect and preserve these collections, and we have instituted policies and procedures to protect our holdings for the future. Please note: Library collections do not circulate.
Access
- In the summer of 2007 MHS will begin the centennial renovation and expansion of its Research Library This will lead to better care for our collections and a better research experience for all of our users. Please check the Library Renovation page for important visitation information.
- The Library is open Tuesday–Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are closed on holidays and holiday weekends, and occasionally close due to inclement weather. Please call ahead before traveling great distances.
- The Library is open to members free of charge, and to the general public for a fee. First–time visitors receive a free day of research, but we ask that you become a member or pay a daily fee on subsequent visits.
- The book stacks are open for browsing to members only. Staff will retrieve all books and collections for non–member visitors and paying patrons. Archival materials must always be retrieved by staff, regardless of membership status.
- Some special collections materials, newspapers and annual reports are stored off-site and require 2–3 days notice for retrieval. Please inquire.
- Fragile materials, including original photographs, maps, documents and newspapers, may be restricted at the discretion of the reference staff.
- Archival and manuscript materials may not be photocopied or photographed, all duplication of such materials will be handled by our Image Services Department, for which fees apply. Please see below for specifics.
- Each visitor is required to fill out a Research Registration form (PDF). You can print this form and bring it with you to save time. We will also ask to photocopy your driver's license or another picture I.D. Please have these ready upon check–in.
- Please sign the Researcher Day Book each time you visit the Library.
Reading Room Policies
- Currently, MHS has one reading room for all public research. We ask that you work cooperatively and quietly with those around you. While talking is not prohibited, we do ask that you converse quietly. Please hold extended conversations or the use your cellular phones in the lobby.
- Upon entering the Library, all coats, bags, backpacks, umbrellas and other outside gear must be put away in the coatroom. Lockers are available for daily use. If your bag is too large for a locker, you may leave it at the staff desk.
- We have limited electrical outlets and these are available on a first-come, first–served basis. Please have battery power and any other electronic equipment you may need for your computer. Scanners, cameras, camera phones and video cameras are not allowed.
- The Reading Room is equipped with public access computers, microfilm reader–printers and a photocopier. Please be aware of others waiting to use the equipment. The staff may impose time limits and a sign–up list system when the Library is busy.
- Wireless Internet connection is available. Staff is not able to provide technical assistance, however.
- No food or drinks are allowed in the reading room. Unfortunately, we do not have a lunch room for researchers. There are several restaurants, delis and cafes nearby.
Collections Policies
- Our collections do not circulate and no materials may leave the Library.
- Much of our collections catalog is available through our online catalog, Minerva. This is a shared catalog with many other Maine libraries so be sure that the materials you want are actually held at MHS. (You may limit your search to MHS–only holdings.) We also have card catalogs here in the Library, however any materials acquired since 2001 are cataloged only in Minerva. Please ask staff for assistance.
- Please read and observe the Collections Guidelines, which are posted on the tables throughout the Reading Room. By signing the Researcher Registration form, you agree to observe these rules, which have been instated to safeguard our Collections.
- The reference staff retrieves manuscripts, rare books, maps, photographs and pamphlets. Please complete a Request for Special Materials card for each request of this type. These are available from the staff.
Photocopies and Photography
- Photocopying is limited. Many of our holdings are fragile, rare or unique, therefore we prohibit photocopying the following: manuscripts (all original materials such as letters and diaries), maps, original newspapers, architectural drawings, oversized items and fragile books. We reserve the right to restrict photocopying of any material in our holdings.
- Much of our book collection can be photocopied. Please observe the "Do Not Photocopy" notices on some of the older or more fragile books. All copying is self-service and the fees are:
-
- Title page is free (for documentation)
- 8 1/2"x 11" copies are $.15.
- 11" x 17" copies are $.25
- Copies from the microfilm reader printers and computer are $.25 per page.
- We also offer a limited photocopying service.
- Photography and scanning are not allowed. Nearly 10,000 images are available online through the Maine Memory Network. If you require a photographic or digital copy please ask to speak with our Image Services Coordinator or go to our Image Services section for information about Rights and Reproductions. You may also order reproductions from our collections at www.vintagemaineimages.com, another website run by Maine Historical Society
- A United States Copyright notice is posted by the photocopier. All users must abide by this law and are responsible for any violation.