Rules and Regulations      

• 1.      An annual registration form must be read and filled out on the researcher’s first visit to the Research Center during each fiscal year (January 1- December 31) 

• 2.      Researchers and visitors must sign the guest register each day when entering the Research Center. 

• 3.      Please leave all briefcases, purses and other personal containers with the Research Assistant, if requested. A coat rack is provided for coats. 

• 4.      Only pencils may be used in the Research Center (no pens or markers). Pencils are provided. Staff permission is needed for the use of laptops, computers or other electronic equipment.  NO digital cameras or scanners are allowed. 

• 5.      Smoking is not permitted. Food and beverages are not allowed. 

• 6.      All materials must be handled carefully. They must not be leaned upon, marked, bent or torn. Their existing arrangement must be preserved. Maintain filed papers in proper order. Archival boxed items are to stay in the order found. Please promptly report to the staff any errors in cataloging, dating, filing or any damage to materials.  

• 7.      When searching various surname files, place files, and topic files, use indices found in three-ring binders on research tables.  Visitors are to request surname files, place files, and topic files from a research assistant.  File cabinets containing surname files, place files, and topic files are closed to visitors and not self-service. 

• 8.      When searching files, use only ONE file folder at a time so as not to mix up items from various file folders. DO NOT refile file folders. The research assistant will show you where to return file folders after you are finished with them.  

• 9.      There is a nominal fee for photocopies. The Research Assistant will make all photocopies for you – no self service. The Research Center reserves the right to restrict use or photocopying of some research materials including certain abound volumes, oversize sheets or fragile items. 

• 10.  The researcher assumes full responsibility for conforming to the laws of libel, privacy and copyright which may be involved in his/her use of manuscripts and other materials.  

• 11.  Please advise the research assistant of your departure. Please accept the Research Assistant’s request to observe all materials, photocopies, books, etc. before departing. 

• 12.  By law our Research Center is given the right to detain any persons suspected of attempting the unauthorized removal of any document, map, book or other archival materials (WISCONSIN STATUES Chap. 943.60. Test in LAWS of 199, Chap 245.) Penalties for archival theft include a fine of up to $10,000.00 and prison terms from nine months to ten years depending on the value of the materials taken.