Researcher sitting in the reading room

Research Services

Overview

Our collections contain much that is rare, fragile, or covered under copyright, therefore the major part of Hoover’s research resources are only accessible within the reading room at Stanford University or at our satellite reading room in the Washington DC office (for digital content only). Some digitized content is available through our Digital Collections website from anywhere.

Conditions of use, rights and permissions and all other policies and user agreements that pertain to accessing certain collections and use of all collections, within the reading room, are in place to protect the collections and to help future researchers. Before you visit, please make yourself aware of these conditions of use to ensure a seamless research experience.

 

Conditions of Use

The Hoover Institution Library & Archives reading rooms are open to the public for academic research purposes without charge, subject to donor restrictions, other Stanford University policies, and the user’s acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth. These conditions apply to both remote and in-person use of the materials, regardless of the particular collections that you intend to use.

In order to protect the collections and to help future researchers, all users of the Hoover Institution Library & Archives must abide by the following conditions of use, summarized below. (Download to read the complete conditions of use statement).
 

Use, Security, and Protection of the Collections

Reading rooms are open to the public for academic research purposes without charge and are subject to donor restrictions, other Stanford University policies, and the user’s acceptance of the terms and conditions of use.

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Entry to reading room via HHMB

Visitor Requirements

For visitors entering or leaving our reading room we provide lockers, pencils, and notepaper as certain personal items are not allowed. Please read our visitor requirements to ensure you are prepared for your visit. 

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Watch
handling archival materials with foam supports

Handling

If you are new to using rare library and archival materials for your research, please watch this video and read a few key points to guide you through the process of handling. Your participation will ensure the use of our collection for future researchers.

Watch

Material Use

Audiovisual

To listen to sound recordings or view videos or films, please contact us at least 7 calendar days before you visit. We will advise you of the accessibility of the materials you wish to use. Not all audiovisual material is immediately accessible.

 

Library Materials

Almost all of the materials of the Hoover Institution’s Library are listed in Stanford University Libraries' online catalog, SearchWorks. However, some of the serials, newspapers, government documents and society publications (and their holdings) may be listed only in the card catalogs located in the reading room.

Reproduction of Materials and Camera Use

The rules for reproduction of materials and camera use are defined on the basis of the safety of the materials and researchers. Researchers are solely responsible for compliance with all applicable laws and are solely responsible for any infringement of copyright laws. Use of personal or cell phone cameras, flash/thumb drives, and/or the Library & Archives scanner is permitted with some restrictions. 

Contact Us

location

Address

434 Galvez Mall, Stanford University Stanford, CA 94305-6003

Go to our Visit Us page for more details.

time

Hours

Monday - Friday

8:30 am - 4:30 pm

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