Today, Houghton Library introduces a new special collections request system that allows patrons to register and place requests for materials online. This system replaces paper registration and paper forms to request materials to use in the library, and because it will eventually be HCL-wide, will eliminate the need for patrons to register separately at each HCL special collections library.
Go to the Special Collections Request Account page to register. Upon registering, you create your individual account. With that account you can:
- submit requests through a form or via links in the catalog record
- submit requests in advance of a visit to a library or while at the library
- track the status of each request
- access detailed information about past requests
All patrons, regardless of affiliation, will be required to register in the new system before requesting special collections materials. This includes patrons who have registered before at any of the HCL libraries. Patrons who are not currently affiliated with Harvard University or who do not hold a Special Borrower Card will need to visit the Library Privileges Office at Widener Library after registering to obtain a Harvard College Library Special Collections Card.