The Western Historical Manuscript Collection has offices on the four University of Missouri campuses. A subject guide to the holdings of the four branches is available for patrons' use in the reading room.
The holdings of WHMC-Columbia can be accessed through either the extensive name, location, and subject index, the alphabetical listing of collection titles, or specialized subject guides. Narrative descriptions and inventories of each collection enhance the card catalog entries. Reference archivists are available to assist the in-house researcher, as well as to answer mail and telephone inquiries. There is no charge for reference assistance or use of the collections. Reference inquiries via e-mail can be made here. Collection descriptions and inventories can be accessed here.
All researchers, including those unaffiliated with a university or college, are welcome to use the resources of the Collection. Holdings are non-circulating and must be used on the premises. Researchers must provide two pieces of identification (one with a photo), and read and sign a rules and consent form before using manuscript material.
Some collections require written permission from the donor to use and/or photocopy. Approximately half the collections are stored off-site; they may be recalled and are usually available for use within 24 hours. Materials housed at one branch of WHMC may be loaned to any of the others; transfers from one campus to another usually takes 48 hours. Microfilmed collections may be borrowed through interlibrary loan.
Out-of-town researchers are encouraged to write prior to their visit to make their needs known so materials may be recalled from storage or the other campuses if necessary.
All photocopying is handled by the staff. Collections will not be reproduced in their entirety. Orders over 200 pages will be photocopied at the staff's discretion. Orders may be subject to Missouri sales tax and postage and handling is charged for orders that are mailed. Audio and video materials held by the Collection are for research use only, but may be reproduced on a case-by-case basis. A price list for reproduction services is available here.