Using the Collections

1. Bridwell Library's Special Collections, Methodist Reference Collection, and Archives are available to the public for use within the Decherd Turner Reading Room.  Anyone with a reasonable need to consult these restricted access materials directly is asked to register at the Reference Desk (214-768-4046).



2. The Turner Reading Room is open each regular weekday, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  To allow sufficient time for retrieval and viewing, "last call" for additional materials is at 4:30 p.m.  The Reading Room is not open on weekends.



3. It is not necessary to make an appointment to use the Turner Reading Room, but for your own convenience, you may call ahead.  For Special Collections requests, contact one of the Curators at (214) 768-3440 or (214) 768-1989. For Methodist Reference and Archives, call the Center for Methodist Studies at (214) 768-1696.



4. Requests for materials are made by filling out a request form for each item, complete with author, title, call number, location (see #5 below), your name, and your ID or driver's license number.  If you need help finding call numbers, please ask the Reference Librarian for assistance in using the library's online catalog. 



5. Up to five items may be requested at one time. Additional requests can be filled only after all other materials are returned.  Please note: an unrestricted copy of your requested item may be available elsewhere within the SMU libraries. If so, a Curator or Methodist Librarian may ask you to use it instead of the restricted copy.



6. Please be aware that  "Special Reference" materials are less restricted than "Special Collections" materials.  Special Reference items may be used in the library's public areas; request them at the Circulation Desk.  Items from Special Collections, Methodist Reference, and Archives may  be used only in the Turner Reading Room.



7. To enter the Turner Reading Room, all readers must show photo identification, such as a student ID card or a driver's license.  Those who are not current SMU faculty, students, or staff members must fill out a registration card supplied by the Reference Librarian.
   
   
8. The Turner Reading Room is a secured area that is monitored by staff and video cameras.  Readers will be escorted to and from this area via the North Elevator.



9. No coats, backpacks, purses, or bags are permitted in the Turner Reading Room.  Books and papers needed for research will be checked by the staff before entering and leaving this secured area.  Only a pencil may be used for taking notes.  Quiet must be maintained.  The use of a laptop computer keyboard is permitted only with the express consent of the Curator and all readers present.  No scanning of any kind is permitted.



10. The Library's mission is to acquire and preserve important texts for the use of present and future generations. Visitors to the Turner Reading Room accept the privilege -- and the responsibility -- of using the library's rare objects with due respect and extreme care.  Please avoid touching the surfaces of the pages or images.

Thank you.  We wish you well in your studies and hope that Bridwell Library's Special Collections, Methodist Reference Collection, and Archives provide the enriching information and inspiration that you seek.
 

Elizabeth Haluska-Rausch, PhD
Eric White, Ph.D.
Curators of Special Collections 

E-mail:  ehaluska@mail.smu.edu
             ewhite@mail.smu.edu

Bridwell Library
6005 Bishop Blvd.
Dallas TX  75275
Phone:  (214) 768-3440
            (214) 768-1989
Fax:      (214) 768-4295