If collection materials have been digitized and are available online, you will see a link to a viewer on the Search Burns Archive description.
If collection material has been digitized but is not available online, you may request access to them via the Reading Room. Select the Physical Storage Information option that starts with “Digital Content” and add it to your request list.
You may request up to 20 items at a time for digital access through the Reading Room. If you need to request more materials, please reach out to us via our contact form and we will work with you to complete your request.
When you are ready to submit your requests, click on the "My Request List" link at the top of the page.
To complete the request form for a research visit:
Select Visit from the drop down menu
Select the Date you would like to visit
In the Special Requests field, if needed, please include any questions or accommodations for your visit, and indicate your priority requests if you are making multiple requests
Review the and select the Digital Content number
Select Submit Requests
You will be then directed to the Burns Library online request management system.
When prompted to sign-in, use the “login or register” boxes to open or create your account. Boston College Students, FAculty and Staff should use their BC usernames and passwords, Everybody else should use the Guest Researchers portal and create their own usernames and passwords.
If you are a new user, or haven’t visited in a while, you will need to review our registration policies and complete the registration form, then you'll be directed to your Current Requests list, where you should see your Current Requests List
If you are currently registered, you will be directed straight to your Current Requests Page, where you should see your Current Request List.
You can also use the Actions tab to edit, clone, or cancel your request.
Staff will email you to confirm your appointment date/time and materials.
The reading room staff will have the materials ready for your visit. You'll simply need to show a school or government-issued ID and take a photograph to finish your registration process.
