Thank you for your interest in materials from the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library.
We are happy to provide reference assistance to all users, but please note that onsite patrons and UVA community members receive priority. Questions are addressed in the order in which they are received, and response time will vary.
Currently, our average response time is six weeks for outside researchers.
Please review this information before submitting the reference form below
- Due to staffing constraints, we cannot provide in–depth or exploratory research services. We prioritize requests that clearly identify specific collections and describe focused, immediate research needs. Please consult Virgo (the Library’s catalog) and relevant finding aids before submitting your request.
- Independent researchers may be able to help with in-depth research needs beyond the scope of our services.
- Non-UVA researchers: We will do our best to assist you, but please be aware that we must prioritize members of the UVA community in our work. We appreciate your understanding.
- Research and scanning limits: Staff will spend up to one hour of research time, including providing up to 75 low-resolution reference scans per researcher per year.
- Genealogical research: Due to staffing limitations, we are unable to conduct in-depth genealogical or family history research.
- Copyright inquiries: Questions related to permissions and publishing should be directed to our Permissions and Publishing page.
Need a scan?
If you know the exact material you would like scanned (e.g. specific pages from a book and call number or folder within a box and its MSS number), there are two options.
- Fastest option: For low-resolution scans under 75 pages…
Please fill out the Duplication Order Form. This service can deliver low-resolution research scans under 75 pages, and typically results in the quickest turnaround.
- For high-resolution scans and orders larger than 75 pages…
You can request publication-quality scans of Special Collections material from the Library’s Digital Production Group.