Rules Governing Admission and Use

The Library is a collection of rare books and bindings which the Trustees make accessible to suitably qualified scholars and readers, advised by the Librarian, and in accordance with the terms of a High Court judgment of 1991. No automatic right of admission as such exists, and applicants should understand that they may be directed to alternative libraries and collections.

While every effort is made to facilitate scholars, particularly those who wish to draw on the Library’s excellent resources for the History of Science and History of the Book, it should be noted that the library may only be used where specific required material is not reasonably available elsewhere. Enquiries by post, telephone, or e-mail must be made before any appointment to inspect material can be made. Applicants should expect to be asked for scholarly/character references, likewise for a statement of their research project.

Approved readers can expect to have access during the normal working week (excepting days when public holidays occur or when the Librarian is on annual leave). Normal reading hours will be 10.00 -16.30hrs (with lunch break).

Readers are accommodated in the Librarian’s office, where they work under supervision. Readers should understand that they may be asked to interrupt their studies, and temporarily surrender material under examination, when the Librarian is unable to maintain satisfactory supervision (eg during lunch and other breaks). In the short to medium term, it is not possible to accommodate more than two readers at any one time. The Librarian reserves the right to establish priority in this regard, and may choose to facilitate one reader only.

Coats, bags (including hand-bags), brief-cases etc. must be deposited in the area provided. Readers should understand that they may be subject to a personal security check on entering and leaving the Library.

No food, drink, medicines, newspapers or magazines may be brought into the Librarian’s office or the Library.

Gloves and other conservational materials must be used as directed by the Librarian.

A growing Reference Collection is available to readers. The use of lap-top computers is facilitated.

Facilities for digitised photography are available, images being prepared by the Librarian (or, under her direction, by other staff) at costs individually negotiated. Same-day delivery is exceptional though every effort is made to meet orders promptly.

The Librarian is keen to develop cordial professional relations with scholars and readers active in the various fields served by the Library. Readers are invited to join the Friends of Edward Worth.

Informal visits by individuals may be arranged in certain circumstances, but no unannounced arrivals will be facilitated. Small professional groups, whether of scholars, librarians or others, may be accommodated by special arrangement.


 

Dr. Elizabethanne Boran,
Librarian,
The Edward Worth Library (1733),
Dr. Steevens' Hospital,
Dublin 8.