Can I request Manuscript Division collections in advance of a visit?
Researchers are always encouraged to contact Manuscript Division staff before a visit, as many collections are stored offsite or may have access restrictions.
Onsite collections may be requested in the reading room without advance notice. Manuscript staff retrieve requested manuscripts within 5-10 minutes under normal circumstances. Patrons may request up to 4 boxes from 1 collection at a time by submitting a paper call slip.
Some collections are stored offsite and require advance notice of at least 2 business days for retrieval. A list of collections stored offsite can be found on our website. To order off-site materials in advance of a research visit, send a list of the specific containers you would like to consult along with the dates of your visit to Manuscript Reading Room staff. Researchers cannot request Manuscript Division collection materials via the automated call slip feature of the online catalog.
Please note that the Library of Congress is currently closed to the public and most staff. See the Library's Covid 19 page for more information.
