Order Photographs & Scans

What materials can be digitally or photographically reproduced?

Materials in the collection, including books, manuscripts, archival documents, photographs, maps, architectural drawings, and ephemera may be reproduced digitally or with a black and white photographic print. The availability of reproductions is subject to the materials' size, condition, and copyright restrictions. Requests for reproductions may be denied if such work would damage the materials to be copied.   Most reproductions are done using on-campus facilities.

How do I place a digital or photographic reproduction request?

If you are ordering photographs and you already have the order number(s) of the images to be reproduced, then you just need to print out a copy of the Reproduction Request Form, fill it out (be sure to sign it) and either fax it back to us or mail it to us. You can also bring your completed form to us directly during our hours of opening. Many patrons use our Digital Collections to identify items of interest. Ordering reproductions for other materials may require a personal visit to the Special Collections Division to identify the materials you require. Note: Because a signature is required before your order can be processed, we are unable to take reproduction requests for photographs and scans over the phone at this time. For further information about ordering or using images, please contact us at photos@u.washington.edu or by phone at (206) 543-1929.

How long does it take and how much does it cost?

During fall, winter, and spring quarters, it usually takes up to three weeks or more for an order to be completed. During summer quarter and interim periods, it may take as long as four to six weeks. Large or complex orders may take longer. See our price list for costs and handling fees. There is no need to prepay, unless you have a large order. For most materials, Special Collections uses the CSS Photography Lab for reproductions. CSS will send you an invoice after they send you your order.

Can I get my reproduction order processed faster than the standard processing time?

Yes, if there is staff available. Rush orders may not be available during summer quarter or interim periods.You will have to pay rush fees. Rush orders require that you get preference over other orders waiting in the normal work flow, so you will need to pay extra for that privilege. The extra fees will come from the Special Collections Division and from the lab reproducing the image. For more information, email photos@u.washington.edu.

Where do I pick them up and can they be mailed?

Most orders may by picked up at the CSS Photography Lab in the basement of Kane Hall on the UW campus, or you may have them mailed directly from the lab. There are fees for shipping and handling. You may check on your order or inquire about mailing charges by calling the lab at 206-543-9912 or emailing us at photos@u.washington.edu.

Can I get maps, architectural drawings, and oversized graphic materials reproduced?

A Nakoaktok Chief's Daughter. (North American Indian, E.S.Curtis, vol. 10, plate 334). Special Collections, UW Libraries, NA418.

Special Collections uses a variety of UW vendors to reproduce oversized items, depending on the size and condition of the materials, and the desired output. The turn around time is usually up to two or three weeks. During summer quarter and interim periods, it may take as long as four to six weeks. To order scans of oversized materials, use the Physical Plant Reproduction Order Form. Costs vary according to what processes are suitable, the sizes of the original, and the desired copy. See the price list for further information or email photos@u.washington.edu. Additional service fees may be applied to rush orders, fragile materials requiring stabilization or repair, or use of outside copy services. You do not need to pay for services in advance, unless you have a large order. You may choose to be invoiced, or you may pay when you pick up the completed work. Staff will direct you as to where you may pick up your reproductions. If you want the materials to be mailed, packing and shipping costs may be added.

Can I use images from Special Collections for publication?

Once you have ordered a print or scan, you cannot use it for anything other than classroom use, student projects, personal display, or research without requesting formal permission. Please see the page for Permission for Publication.

For further information about ordering or using images, please contact us at photos@u.washington.edu or by phone at (206) 543-1929.