Repository

A repository is the physical space (building, room, area) reserved for the storage of archival materials. It is sometimes used synonymously with depository.

To preserve and protect archival collections, modern repositories are equipped to meet current standards of temperature and humidity controls and security. Whether a repository is open or closed to the public depends on the policy of the parent institution.

At Lehigh, documents must be requested from the Special Collections repositories. Materials are usually retrieved within 24 hours and must remain and be used in the library’s Reading Room.

Next: important rules for the Reading Room