In Special Collections we work 9-5 Mon Wed Fri, open to the public 1-5
pm.
Sat. we are here and open 9-5
Tues and Thurs we are here and open 1-9 pm.
In my case the Archives is closed 3 mornings each week to the public. I'm
doing processing, creating indexes, researching for and answering
mail. Much of my "closed to the public time" is also spent supplying
information and visuals to city depts., local historic preservation organization
WHALE, and the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park.
Appointments are required, though I will serve the occasional walkin if I
am available and their request isn't overly involved.
Our policy is posted and made available to anyone inquiring about research
in the Archives Room. Researchers must sign a registration form on their first
visit. This is kept on file for subsequent visits. Items are gathered and ready
for their use when they arrive in the Archives. I have a very flexible schedule
and will shift days off, etc. to fit the researcher's needs, within reason. No
extensions of closing time or coming in at 6:00 am. Don't laugh, I've had the
6:00 am. request.
Our collections are quite historically significant (particularly Whaling
and Civil War collections) and though I have had questions about the need for
appointments, once explained there have been no further complaints.
Though I understand Dean's perspective that when we are here we should
serve the researchers, I also must point out that I can not have unprocessed
collections out on tables while I go help someone decipher 18th century
handwriting. I also think we should give our full attention to our users who in
most cases are from out of the area, have limited time, and much to look
though.
Tina V. Furtado, archivist
Archives Room - New Bedford Free Public Library 613 Pleasant Street New Bedford, MA Tel : (508) 961-3104 Fax: (508) 991-6368 e-mail : tfurtado@sailsinc.org |