Newberry Library Reading Room Camera Policy

Latin Psalter [ca. 1480] Case MS 183

The Newberry Library allows readers to use personal cameras in the Reading Rooms. All readers who request to use personal digital cameras to photograph Newberry Library materials must sign this agreement (to be renewed each calendar year). They must also notify staff each time they intend to use a personal camera in the reading room and identify the items being photographed. In addition, readers agree to the following conditions:

• Library materials must be handled with care as described in the Reading Room Rules. In addition:
  
  • The preservation needs of the material outweigh the technical limitations of the camera.
  • Materials must remain flat on the desk or in the stand/cradle provided.
  • Readers may not push on bindings, stand on table/chairs, or hold up materials in order to obtain a better quality picture.
  • Use of a flash, outside lights, scanners, tripods, templates, or other equipment is prohibited.
• Photography taken by readers may only be used for personal reference and research purposes.
  
  • Readers who require images for publication or broadcast should contact the Photoduplication Department (photoduplication@newberry.org). 
  • Images may not be published or broadcast in any media or displayed online without prior written permission of the Newberry Library.
• Images may not be added to the holdings of another library or archival repository.
• Photography of other readers or library staff is prohibited.
• The researcher accepts full responsibility for determining whether or not U.S. copyright law protects the materials being copied and whether or not his or her use exceeds the limits of fair use.
• The researcher will adhere to any and all of the restrictions that govern the research use of a specific collection.
• The Newberry Library reserves the right to prohibit the photographing of any of its collections.

Please contact us with any questions about this policy.