ILMARION-L Archives

From: "Cheryl Rothwell" <>
Subject: [ILMARION] Guidelines for Records Use
Date: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 16:22:55 -0400

I think this is a worthwhile reminder to us all.

Guidelines For Using Records Repositories And Libraries Recommended by
the National Genealogical Society
http://www.NGSgenealogy.org/comstandrecords.htm
http://www.NGSgenealogy.org/gsrecords.pdf

Recognizing that how they use unique original records and fragile
publications will affect other users, both current and future, family
history researchers habitually--

* are courteous to research facility personnel and other
researchers, and respect the staff's other daily tasks, not
expecting the records custodian to listen to their family
histories nor provide constant or immediate attention.

* dress appropriately, converse with others in a low voice,
and supervise children appropriately.

* do their homework in advance, know what is available and
what they need, and avoid ever asking for "everything" on
their ancestors.

* use only designated work space areas and equipment,
like readers and computers, intended for patron use,
respect off-limits areas, and ask for assistance if needed.

* treat original records at all times with great respect and
work with only a few records at a time, recognizing that
they are irreplaceable and that each user must help
preserve them for future use.

* treat books with care, never forcing their spines, and handle
photographs properly, preferably wearing archival gloves.

* never mark, mutilate, rearrange, relocate, or remove from
the repository any original, printed, microform, or
electronic document or artifact.

* use only procedures prescribed by the repository for
noting corrections to any errors or omissions found in
published works, never marking the work itself.

* keep note-taking paper or other objects from covering
records or books, and avoid placing any pressure upon
them, particularly with a pencil or pen.

* use only the method specifically designated for identifying
records for duplication, avoiding use of paper clips, adhesive
notes, or other means not approved by the facility.

* return volumes and files only to locations designated for
that purpose.

* before departure, thank the records custodians for their
courtesy in making the materials available.

* follow the rules of the records repository without protest,
even if they have changed since a previous visit or differ
from those of another facility.

C1997, 2001 by National Genealogical Society; includes
material C1995 by Joy Reisinger, CGSM. Both copyright
owners grant permission to copy or publish these
standards, provided they are reproduced in their entirety, including
this notice.

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• [ILMARION] Guidelines for Records Use by "Cheryl Rothwell" <>