Using the North Carolina Collection Photographic Archives

The North Carolina Collection seeks to promote education and an appreciation for the value of historical photographs through public use of images held by the Collection. Access to the Photographic Archives is provided to all researchers on an equal basis. Pictorial research and image use is subject to the following general guidelines. The North Carolina Collection, however, reserves the right to make exceptions or additions to any of the terms stated herein on a case-by-case basis.

• The Photographic Archives contain an estimated 1.5 million photographs in multiple collections. Many, but not all, of these collections are represented in the university library catalog. There also is a departmental database containing more than 20,000 collection-, folder-, or item-level records that the photographic staff may search for a variety of indexed terms and subjects.
• Researchers may request digital scans or quality ink jet prints of images in the collections. Please review the detailed information supplied on the web page Requesting Reproductions before making your request. Issues of copyright, donor restrictions, privacy and publicity, trademarks and licensing, and departmental policy may affect the reproduction and use of images located in the North Carolina Collection Photographic Archives.
• Researchers requesting copies or seeking authorization to use images are required to describe the intended use on an agreement form that defines the conditions under which authorization for use is granted.
• Photographic prints or negatives may not be borrowed from the archives.
• Images displayed on the North Carolina Collection web site are supplied for reference and informational purposes only.

On-site Research

Researchers examine photographs in the North Carolina Collection Reading Room, where public service staff provide initial assistance. Photographic Archvies staff are available for researchers needing more specialized assistance. Researchers who need to view original neagtives will also be assisted directly by a photographic archives staff member.

Hours of operation and contact information

For the best possible assistance, it is preferable that researchers contact the North Carolina Collection in advance to describe research subjects and schedule an appointment. This will make it possible to have appropriate images assembled and ready for use when you arrive.

Requests from those unable to visit the Photographic Archives

Staff can conduct only limited searches, no more than thirty minutes, for patrons who cannot visit the archive.