How to Search the Collections
Rules and Procedures for Visiting Researchers
Requested archival documents are brought by Center staff to a security-controlled research room equipped with facilities for photocopying as well as listening to and viewing user-copies of audiovisual materials when available. Procedures are detailed in “Rules and Regulations Governing Access and Use.”
Visiting researchers must fill out a printed copy of the Research Registration Form prior to their appointment.
Access to materials is conditional upon adherence to these rules.
The archivist enforces the rules and is available to answer questions about handling, reproduction, and other uses of the collections.
- Researchers are not permitted in the stacks.
- Collections do not circulate and may not be removed from the reading room.
- Researchers are limited to one box on the table at a time.
- Maintain original order. Remove one item or folder at a time and flag its location with the markers provided.
- Work slowly and carefully to prevent records from being crumpled, torn, or broken. Rushing through archival collections endangers the materials.
- Return material to the box before leaving the reading room. Do not leave materials unattended.
- Initial your container list as you receive each box.
- No eating, drinking or smoking in the reading room.
Duplication Requests
Photocopies and digital copies of materials held by the Sousa Archives and Center for American Music can be made available to individuals for the standard charges outlined in University of Illinois Library Universal Fee Schedule. These fees cover reproduction services only and do not provide copyright clearance, convey commercial use rights, or expand or limit the rights provided by the Fair Use provisions of the U.S. Copyright Code. The Sousa Archives cannot provide photographic prints from its collections, but these can be secured through a photographic finishing service. For those materials which the Sousa Archives holds the copyright to an additional fee will be charged if a commercial publication, broadcast, or performance is anticipated from these specific duplicated materials from the Sousa Archives collections.
A full schedule of duplication fees may be downloaded from here.
Questions regarding duplication requests should be sent to the Director of the Sousa Archives and Center for American Music.
Tours for Groups
Tours are offered daily during regular Center hours. Individuals may request tours, as may larger groups such as university classes, nursing homes, and school bands. Special tours outside of regular hours are available upon request.
To ensure there are staff available for your tour, please make an appointment ahead of time, especially if you plan on bringing a large group.
Request for Research
To schedule a research appointment, please fill out our appointment form.