At the Archive, we have the challenging task of encouraging the use of materials while protecting them for future users. This is often an uneven compromise, but we are sure you will recognize and appreciate that these materials are here for your use because others in years past made the effort to preserve them. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
All researchers must sign the Visitor's Register each day they visit the the Archive at Fort Collins Museum of Discovery.
Smoking, food, and drink are prohibited in the Archive.
Personal property not essential to research (including backpacks and coats) must be placed in the designated area in front of the Archive Welcome Desk.
Two computers are available to researchers in the archive. Personal computers are allowed as long as they do not disturb other patrons.
Books and all materials are non-circulating and may not be removed from the Archive.
Local History collections are non-circulating, but copies may be made of many materials unless they are restricted, fragile, or oversized. Local History materials may not be published or displayed, in full or in part, without the written permission of the Curator of the Archive or Museum Director.
Photocopies are .10 each, payable by cash, check, or credit card in the Museum Store.
Researchers may ask the Archive Staff to make "study" copies on the copy machine of photographs for personal or research use, or as a preview copy before they intend to purchase a photographic reproduction. Researchers are requested to be as selective as possible when making these copy requests since the process is, ultimately, harmful to the materials.
High-quality photographic reproductions and digital scans may be ordered, unless restricted, from the Archive for both personal and commercial use. See the Photograph Orders page for a full description of reproduction services, or ask a staff member for details and pricing.
Digital Cameras may be used to "copy" documents and published materials in lieu of using the photocopy machine. Cameras may NOT be used to capture photographs in the Archive; a photo reproduction must be ordered.
Personal scanners may be used to "copy" documents and published materials in lieu of using the photocopy machine. Maximum resolution for such scans is 300 dpi. Personal scanners may NOT be used to capture photographs in the Archive; a photo reproduction must be ordered.
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted materials. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy of other reproduction. One of these specified conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be "used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research." If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of "fair use," that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.
Only soft-lead pencils may be used for taking notes; ink from pens and highlighters can damage archival materials. The Archive staff will provide pencils upon request.
Researchers may be required to wear gloves (provided by the Archive) while handling archival materials.
Materials should not be written on, marked, leaned on, folded anew, traced, or handled in any way likely to damage them. Immediately notify the staff of any damage noticed.
Unless otherwise stated, items must be kept in the original order in which they are found.
Up to five files, city directories, or maps from the Archive may be requested at one time. Due to space reasons, only two boxes from Special Collections may be brought out at a time.
Many of the Archive's holdings are in off-site storage and will require a delivery time of 2 to 3 business days to retrieve for research purposes. See a staff member for details and retrieval requests.
If use of a collection or item is restricted by a deed of gift or contract, the researcher must have written permission from the donor. If permission is obtained from the donor, the original copy of the letter shall be given to the Archive at Fort Collins Museum of Discovery for its permanent records.
If you have a correction or additional information on an item, please notify the staff.
Citing Archival Materials and the Fort Collins History Connection Website
Preserving the history of Fort Collins, Colorado & the Cache la Poudre region
