The easiest way to obtain copies is to bring a camera to the reading room. Cameras can be used to photograph most special collection items but we do ask you to keep the flash off. A digital camera is also available to loan from staff in the reading room if you have a USB flash drive to save your images to.

Most special collection items cannot be copied on photocopiers or contact scanners. The use of camera stands or tripods to photograph special collection items may require prior curatorial approval. 

When taking copies of any collection material inside the Library it is your responsibility to comply with the requirements of the Copyright Act 1968.

Ask staff in the room about what copying options are available for specific items. Copying collection material may be subject to copyright, access conditions, preservation and other restrictions.

See our Copyright in Library collections page for further details.

You can also order copies in a range of formats using the Library’s Copies Direct service.

Copying for the purposes of research and study is generally permitted, if you wish to publish images or quote from collection material in publication you may be required to consult the Library and gain permission from a copyright holder.

See our How do I declare my intention to publish page for further details.

Copying digitised material

Many special collections items have been digitised and can be seen online.

You do not need a Library card to search, view and use digitised collection materials online.

Online copies can be printed or downloaded for the purposes of research and study. For any other uses see our How do I declare my intention to publish page for further details.