The collections and resources of Manuscripts and Archives are open to the public, subject to the Terms Governing Use of Departmental Holdings. Before visiting the department, we suggest writing or calling in advance to ensure the availability of records relevant to your research.

Personal reference assistance and research instruction is available in the department's Cowles Reference Center. Researchers may also make an appointment with a specific reference staff member.

Those interested in self-paced general instruction in methods for locating primary source material at Yale, particularly in Manuscripts and Archives, are encouraged to review Using Manuscripts and Archives: A Tutorial.

Manuscripts and Archives also offers instruction sessions for classes and groups upon request. The sessions include an introduction to archival research and explanations on how to search the department's manual and electronic catalogs, finding aids, and other databases. In addition, specialized instruction in locating materials on specific topics or areas of interest can be scheduled.

Instructors interested in bringing a class to the department should contact us before the start of the semester. For additional information contact Diane Kaplan at (203) 432-1069 or at diane.kaplan@yale.edu