Reference

The Special Collections and Archives Research Center (SCARC) is open to all members of the Oregon State University community as well as the general public; however, our materials do not circulate and must be used in our Reading Room on the fifth floor of Valley Library. Reference assistance is provided by SCARC staff to help determine the materials appropriate for specific research projects. For more information, please see our COVID-19 Reference and Research Services website.

What should I expect when I arrive?

All researchers must register at the SCARC reference desk and are required to comply with the Reading Room policies, which are designed to protect archival materials for future use. Photo identification is required upon initial registration (OSU faculty, students, and staff may provide their OSU ID); you will be asked to show identification and sign in for each visit. For the safety of our materials and the ease of your research in our Reading Room, all personal property (including coats, bags, notebooks, books, and folders) must be left in the lockers/coatroom. Personal books and loose paper are allowed in some cases and must be approved by the desk staff.

The Reading Room is a designated quiet area, so please keep your voices to a minimum. Additionally, because our space is limited those not using SCARC materials will be asked to find another study location in the library. Cell phone use is not permitted and we ask that you take calls outside the foyer as the space acts as a whisper gallery.

Where do I start my research in Special Collections and Archives?

Here are a few online tutorials that may help you get started.

• Special Collections and Archives Research Center
• Guide to Research for Barometer Staff
• Genealogical Research
• Photographic Formats and Processes

• Brewing
• Botany, Gardening, and Horticulture
• Cultural Resource Centers
• Extension Service
• Farming and Food History
• Farming and Food History: Benton County Food History
• Farming and Food History: Hop Farming
• Linus Pauling
• Multicultural Communities of Oregon
• Nuclear History
• Oregon State University History
• Oregon State University History - Campus Buildings Histories
• Oregon State University History - Campus Buildings. Buildings and Place Names Evaluation for Arnold Dining Hall, Avery Lodge, Benton Hall and Gill Coliseum
• Oregon State University History - Queer History
• Oregon State University History - Women's History
• Oregon State University History - Women's History: Women's Words, Women's Work exhibit guide
• War History

How do I get copies of SCARC materials?

We provide a variety of duplication services at cost, but reserve the right to restrict reproduction of materials due to condition, size, or donor requirements. Additional details are available on our Reproduction & Use page.

For more help, see our About Us, Facilities and Frequently Asked Questions pages.