The University of Western Ontario Archives Customer Service Charter

Archives Mandate To identify, acquire, arrange, describe, preserve, promote the use of, and make available those University records and related archival materials from other sources which are of enduring historical, legal, fiscal and administrative value (MAPP 1.30) Our Commitment

Archives Mandate

To identify, acquire, arrange, describe, preserve, promote the use of, and make available those University records and related archival materials from other sources which are of enduring historical, legal, fiscal and administrative value (MAPP 1.30)

Our Commitment

To help patrons access and make effective use of the collections and services of Western Archives (which includes University Archives, The J.J. Talman Regional Collection and The James Alexander and Ellen Rea Benson Special Collection) with efficiency, fairness and courtesy.

What to expect from Western Archives:

• Help patrons to understand our collections and explain our services.
• Provide reference tools to help identify collections that may be relevant to patron research.
• Provide assistance in the use of reference tools, collections and onsite equipment.
• Explain what materials can and cannot be made available in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the Canadian Copyright Act, University policies, donor agreements, and any other restrictions.
• Respond to all patron concerns and inquiries in an efficient and timely fashion.
• Continue to improve and expand information about our services, facilities and holdings.

Limits on Western Archives services:

• Western Archives is unable to devote more that one half hour to conducting research on behalf of patrons. A list of independent researchers who will conduct research for a fee is available upon request at the reading room.
• Western Archives imposes some restrictions on patron photocopying of rare and original monographs and archival materials because of their fragile nature and condition. Patrons are asked to seek permission to photocopy materials. In some instances, staff-assisted photocopying is provided. Patrons are required to seek permission in advance to use digital cameras or scanners.
• Western Archives cannot loan original archival materials to individual researchers. However, some local history monographs, rare books and most microfilm holdings may be eligible for interlibrary loan to other University archives and library special collections in Ontario and Quebec.

How patrons can assist Western Archives:

• Make the most of the contact or visit to Western Archives by researching the Western Libraries Shared Catalogue for rare book or archival holdings relevant to your assigned topic and ordering them beforehand in person, by telephone or by e-mail.
• Provide staff with concise and accurate information relevant to your inquiry or research interest.
• Treat all staff and other patrons with courtesy.
• Handle all Western Archives materials with great care to help preserve them for future generations
• Report any damage to materials to the staff member at the reference desk.
• Acknowledge Western Archives and cite the complete reference for materials used in research.

Quality service improvement:

• Western Archives depends on patron feedback to help assess and improve the quality of our service. Please let us know how we are doing. Contact Western Archives by mail at: Archives and Research Collections Centre, The University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Ontario N6A 3K7; by telephone: 519-661-4046; or by e-mail: Archives Services.