The Chesney Archives will be closed from December 21 through January 1 for JHU winter holiday break.

Chesney Archives
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Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Physiology Building library, 1916.

Conducting Research

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Physiology Building library, 1916.

The Chesney Archives welcomes patrons to conduct research on-site or remotely. All researchers must make a request using our online registration form.  A reference staff member will respond to your request and discuss the materials you wish to research. Depending on the specific materials you request and how you plan to use them, you may need to fill out additional forms. Refer to our Privacy Policies page for more information.

Our reading room is open without fee to the Johns Hopkins community as well as the general public. Before your visit, it is necessary to schedule an appointment. Scheduling the appointment in advance will enable staff to retrieve the materials you need so that they will be ready when you arrive. If you are unable to visit the archives in person or require only a limited selection of materials for your research, you can arrange with our reference staff to obtain reproductions of materials.

 

Directions and Hours

Information about our location and hours may be found on our Contact Us page.

Computers

Computers are welcome in the reading room, which is equipped with wireless internet access and power outlets located near each desk. Hopkins faculty, staff and students can log into the Hopkins network using their JHED ID and password, while other patrons can easily access the wireless connection hosted by the Mt. Washington Conference Center.

Reading Room Rules

Be prepared for your visit by reviewing the following rules of the reading room. Researchers are asked to observe the regulations, which have been established to create an atmosphere conducive to research while ensuring the continued preservation of the archival materials.

  • You may take only paper, pencils, and laptop computers into the reading room. A locked closet is available for backpacks, briefcases, and any other items of value you have with you. A coat closet is located in our lobby area for hats, scarves and coats.
  • Please respect the research environment of our reading room and silence your cell phone. Please take your cell phone into the hallway when necessary. Our staff will help locate a private space for confidential conversations.
  • No cell phone photos, digital cameras, scanners, or voice dictation are allowed in the reading room.
  • No food or beverages are permitted in the reading room. A cafeteria with ample seating is available when you need a break.
  • Archival materials may not be removed from the reading room for any reason.
  • You may work with only one box at a time. Please remove only one folder at a time from the box. After viewing the folder, replace it in the box, preserving the existing order, and initial the call slip indicating materials reviewed.
  • Please exercise care when handling materials. White cotton gloves will be provided when necessary.
  • Please communicate with our reference staff if you wish to have reproductions made of any of the materials you are viewing. Our staff will process your request as soon as possible, but be aware that it normally takes several days – and up to two weeks – to complete a copy request. See our fee schedules for applicable fees.

Need a place to stay?

Overnight accommodations are available right on campus – you can simply walk down the hall from your room. Contact the Mt. Washington Conference Center for more information.

Research Assistance

The Chesney Archives staff also offers a fee-based research assistance service for those who require an archivist to spend significant time in identifying materials or searching documents for specific information relevant to their research. For more information about these services, contact us.