Pitts Quick Links
Using Archives and Special Collections
For up-to-date information on accessing archives and manuscript materials at Pitts Theology Library, please see the Special Collections home page. All archives and manuscript materials must be used in the library's designated Special Collections and Archives reading room, located on the fourth floor.
Please note that many of our archives collections are stored off-site and require 48 hours notice for access. We strongly encourage you to notify us in advance of your visit to confirm that the materials you need will be available. We also invite you to browse our online subject guides and collection finding aids before your visit. This will allow you to pinpoint specific materials relevant to your project and make more efficient use of your time at the library.
To schedule an appointment, contact the Special Collections Reference Assistant at dmadera@emory.edu or 404-727-1223.
Getting to the Library
For directions to the library and parking information, see the library's directions and parking page.
If you are traveling from outside the Atlanta area to conduct research at the library, you might wish to see Emory University's visitor information page for information on transportation, hotels, and dining options.
While at the Library
The Special Collections and Archives reading area is located on the fourth floor of Pitts Theology Library. When you arrive, please check in with the Special Collections Reference Assistant. You will be asked to show identification and complete a brief application form. You will also need to sign a statement indicating that you have read our rules for using archives and manuscript material, which are listed on the back of the application form.
These rules are designed to ensure the long-term preservation of our collections. You will be asked to keep your belongings in the hallway lockers provided, except for note-taking equipment, digital cameras, tablets, and laptop computers. You will need to take notes using a pencil rather than a pen (paper and pencils may be provided), and taking notes with a laptop computer is also allowed. Food or drink are not allowed in the reading room. For more information about our policies for using archives and manuscript material, see the Rules for Use of Archives and Manuscripts.
Obtaining Copies of Archives and Manuscript Material
You may request photocopies or 300dpi PDF scans from most of our archives and manuscript collections. All reproductions must be made by library staff members. The library fee for scans is $1.00 per exposure and $0.25 per photocopy. Additional labor charges apply to photocopy orders of more than 50 pages. A detailed explanation of our reproduction policy is here. For information about using digital cameras to reproduce archives and manuscript material, see our digital camera policy.
If you have any questions or need additional information before planning a research visit, you may contact Debra Madera, Special Collections Reference Assistant (dmadera@emory.edu; 404-727-1223).