Ordering and use of books in the Centre for Manuscripts and Rare Books
Ordering of books
Rare books can only be studied in the reading room of the Centre for Manuscripts and Rare Books and are to be ordered either through the Library's online catalogue REX or by e-mail (bhs@kb.dk) or by filling in an order slip, which is available in the reading room, and returning it to the attendant. Order slips must be filled in completely, giving the shelf mark (i.e. collection and number), author/name(s), title/subject, and the reader's name and address. Ordered books do not arrive at the reading room until the following day at opening time.
Ordering of photocopies, microfilms, and (digital) photographs
Only written orders are accepted. You can order either by e-mail, through REX, or by filling in an order slip in the reading room. The Rare Books Department reserves the right to refuse to copy or photograph very fragile or valuable items. There is a special order slip for ordering microfilms and (digital) photographs. The slips should be filled in with a precise description of what is to be filmed or photographed including type of image and size. Normal delivery time for photocopies is 1-2 weeks, for large orders (more than 100 pages) up to 3 weeks. Delivery time for photographs or microfilms is 2-3 weeks. Rush orders for photographs and microfilms carry an additional charge of 100%. Express delivery of photocopies can be arranged at extra cost. Information as to prices can be obtained by contacting the reading room, the Photographic Studio, or the Department of Manuscripts and Rare Books – or see here.
Readers may not themselves copy material from the Department of Manuscripts and Rare Books, but for private use (study purposes only) it is allowed to take pictures with a digital camera (without flash) – after consulting the staff of the reading room.
Use of rare books
All books are to be studied with extreme care. The books must not be exposed to any kind of rough treatment or other manipulation that will affect their physical condition, e.g. by opening a book by force in a way that could damage the binding. In case of doubt about the handling of a book, please consult the staff of the reading room. While reading only pencils are allowed in order to take notes, other writing implements, such as fountain pens, ball point pens, etc., must not be placed on the desk while working with rare books. Unless otherwise informed you can bring your own laptop (covers are not allowed in the reading room).
Images and copyright
When using reproductions from the collections of the Royal Library users must state clearly that the material originates from the Royal Library, with a designation of department and shelf mark. Please note that material from the Royal Library may be legally protected by the Act on Copyright. Use against this may result in penalty and liability to pay compensation. If images from the collections of the Royal Library are used for commercial purposes a reproduction fee will be charged.
