- Finding manuscripts
- Finding aids
- Using the collection
- Photographing manuscripts in the reading room
- Getting a copy of a manuscripts item
- Publishing manuscripts items from our collection
- Publishing brief extracts
- Citing
- Getting an interlibrary loan
- Contacting the Pictures and Manuscripts team
Finding manuscripts
- Search our catalogue - all manuscripts collections are described in our catalogue
- Tip: Narrow your search to only manuscripts by selecting the 'Manuscripts' format filter
- Visit the Pictures and Manuscripts reading room to view original material
- If you have any questions, please contact us
Finding aids
- Finding aids are descriptive lists which give an overview of the scope, content and size of a collection
- Tip: Check the manuscripts catalogue record to find out if it has a digital finding aid
- Tip: Use the box list in the finding aid to determine which boxes you need
- Tip: Search the content of all online finding aids by using the catalogue search box, and on the ‘search results’ page look for the 'From our finding aids' box on the right side of the page – you may need to scroll down to find it
- Note: Some finding aids are not online. Contact us or visit the Pictures and Manuscripts Reading Room to view these
Using the collection
- Access conditions apply to all collections but the majority are available for research. Please be aware that some collections require access permission, and others may include material that is not available for research at this time. Check the catalogue or contact us before visiting to avoid disappointment.
- Some manuscripts are held at our offsite repository and may require up to 4 weeks notice for delivery. Check the 'In the Library' tab at the bottom of the catalogue record
- Bring your Library card or photo ID when you visit
- Make requests for collection material by completing a paper callslip in the Pictures and Manuscripts reading room
- Tip: You can contact us before your visit to pre-request up to 3 boxes
Photographing manuscripts in the reading room
- The easiest way to obtain copies for study or research is to bring your digital camera to the reading room or borrow one from us
- Digital cameras can be used where access conditions allow, and you agree to comply with the Copyright Act and correct care and handling of material guidelines
Getting a copy of a manuscripts item
This can be done via the Library's copying service Copies Direct.
- Select the 'Order a copy' button in the catalogue record for the collection you want
- Select 'Part(s) of item' (only select 'Whole item' if the collection is very small and you want it copied in full)
- Fill in details of the portion you would like copied. Please provide as much information as you can - e.g. Box, Series, Folder, item title/date, page numbers
- We will advise you if you need to contact a copyright owner
- We will alert you to any other responsibilities when the copy is supplied
- Tip: If you have visited the Reading Room you can flag the items you would like copied
- Tip: Check these pages for more information on:
Publishing manuscripts items from our collection
Please see How do I declare my intention to publish?
Publishing brief extracts
You will not need permission to publish brief extracts (or quotes) for the purposes of research, study, criticism or review, provided the amount quoted is not a 'substantial' part of the copyright work.
In general if you wish to publish more than one paragraph you will need permission from the copyright holder.
Citing
Please see How do I acknowledge the Library in my publication?
Getting an interlibrary loan
We do not lend manuscripts to individuals but theses and copies of manuscripts collections can be borrowed through the interlibrary loan system. Please contact your local library to arrange this.
Contacting the Pictures and Manuscripts team
Use the Ask a Librarian service to lodge an online enquiry about manuscripts.
Phone: (+61) 2 6262 1259
