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Research

Research Room FAQ

Dr. Charles H. Glatfelter Research Room Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book an appointment to visit the Research Room?
To book an appointment for research, please click here. We recommend reserving your appointment in advance online; however, walk-in appointments for the Research Room can be booked in-person the day of, subject to availability. 

What are the hours of operation for the Research Room?
The Dr. Charles H. Glatfelter Research Room is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What are the rules and policies for doing research at ACHS?
For a full list of Research Room rules and policies, please click here.

What can I bring into the Research Room?
You may bring any research materials, including laptops taken out of the case, charging cords, notes, and pencils into the Research Room.

How many items are preserved by the Adams County Historical Society? 
The Adams County Historical Society was incorporated in 1940 and holds well over a million items. Donations of objects, photographs, and archival materials have been received and preserved since that date.  Additionally, ACHS holds many of the original early records for Adams County. 

Should I do research at ACHS? 
If your inquiry is related to Adams County history, then yes! Suitable research topics include Adams County family history or genealogy, local property research, or, more broadly, research related to the Battle of Gettysburg or Gettysburg Campaign. 

Can I take photographs in the research room? 
Non-flash photography of archival material, excluding photographs, is allowed for a fee of $10/day for non-members. Members may take photographs free of charge. ACHS reserves the right to restrict photography of any materials in its holdings. Any photographic devices (including scanners) brought into the Research Room are subject to examination by ACHS prior to your departure. 

Can I make photocopies in the research room?
You may ask a volunteer or staff member to make copies for you in the research room. Copies are $0.50 and must be black & white. You may also print from our public computers at $0.50 per page.

Can I donate an item to the Adams County Historical Society?
If you are interested in donating an item to the Adams County Historical Society, please contact our Archives Manager Maria Lynn at archives@achs-pa.org or (717) 334-4723 ext. 109. Please note that we only accept items with a connection to Gettysburg or Adams County. 

Can I use an image from your collection?
Please reference our Image Licensing Agreement for more information about image usage.

Do you provide appraisals or monetary values for historical items?
No, we are not legally permitted to provide appraisals or monetary values for historical items.

Is the entire collection stored in the archives?
No, most of the society’s three-dimensional artifacts are held in the Artifact Storage Center behind the main facility. 

Is the Adams County Historical Society in charge of plaques for historic properties?
No, ACHS does not manage the distribution of plaques for historic properties nor do we engage in land or building preservation-related activities. 

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