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Access and Reference
Library Access
We are open to all researchers. Consult the online catalog (a work in progress) or contact us to check on the availability of a title or material in a specific subject area. First time visitors should request an orientation on how to best use the catalogs.
Archives Access
The archives is open to the public, however please contact the archivist before visiting. All patrons fill out an identification and usage form on first visits, which can be used on subsequent visits. Only a few collections limit access or require permission before use. Be sure to inquire about this issue ahead of time. The entirety of the archive collections has been added to our online catalog, along with links to their finding guides where available. A separate list of archival finding guides can also be found on this website under Resources.
Research and Reference Requests
Researchers who are unable to visit the library personally are encouraged to hire a freelance scholar in the Boston area. The library staff can fulfill research requests at their discretion. Contact the Archivist if either service is needed. For regular reference questions about library and archive holdings, please call our direct number, write a letter or email, or use our online contact form. Please make sure you include "CL" in the subject line of your email, as well as a personalized subject heading.
Borrowing Books
As of January 1, 2013, borrowing books is a privilege extended to library members only. Please see our membership page for information about support levels, further benefits, and payment options.
The Congregational Library loans contemporary (less than 35 years old) books, either by mail or in person. Email questions about circulation should include "CL" in the beginning of the subject line.
| Lending period: | 4 weeks |
Renewals: |
4 weeks |
| limit 2 renewals per item | |
| request by phone, email, or postcard | |
Book limit: |
4 books per person at any time |
Overdue fines: |
10 cents per book per weekday |
| maximum fine: $30.00 | |
| Books not returned within a reasonable time of notification must be replaced at the borrower's expense. |
Photocopies, Reproductions, and Citations
Photocopying for In-house Patrons
Photocopies are $0.25 per exposure and are processed by the library staff. The staff will use discretion as to limiting photocopies. Patrons are welcome to bring digital cameras to augment copying.
Photographic Reproduction
The Congregational Library reserves the right to limit copy photography. To request a photographic duplication, visit our reproduction and permission to publish page.
Permission to Publish
Scholars publishing their work who wish to reproduce image(s) or cite from printed material in the library's collection should review our reproduction and permission to publish page.