Performing Archival Research

Did you find something of note in the materials you consulted? That’s great! There are a couple more things you may need to consider once the research you have done is ready to make its way into the wider world. 

A majority of materials held by the Pratt Institute Archives are likely to be protected by copyright. While educational and scholarly use of archival resources typically falls under “Fair Use,” it is important to be aware of copyright restrictions when making use of archival materials. The following resources can help you better understand copyright protection in libraries and archives.

It is important to cite archival materials when you refer, quote, or reproduce them in your research. Not only does this increase the credibility of your work, it also allows future researchers and archives staff to find and use the materials again. To learn more about citing archival sources, please see How to Cite Primary Sources. 

The library is able to create digital reproductions (high-resolution JPEGs or TIFFs) from most materials in the Archives. This service is provided at no cost to Pratt Institute students, faculty, and staff. Reproduction fees for non-Pratt researchers will be calculated according to the reproduction fee schedule. 

• Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and may be denied if the materials are fragile or restricted. 
• For uses other than private study or research, use fees may apply and will be calculated according to the use fee schedule. Researchers wishing to reproduce or publish materials must notify archives staff. 
• Turnaround time is approximately two weeks. Orders needed in one week or less will be considered rush orders.
• Files will be delivered via email or Google Drive.
• All fees must be paid and a signed permission form must be returned before delivery of the scans.