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History 357S/PUBPOL 232S: The Insurgent South

A guide to finding primary sources at the Rubenstein Library and beyond for The Insurgent South: (History 357S/PUBPOL 232S)

Before you Arrive

  • Register as a researcher: This one-time researcher registration process is easy and also includes the creation of an online account. With this account, you'll be able to request material for use in our reading room or to be reproduced, and to track the status of your requests.
  • Request the material you want to use: Submit your requests 2 full business days in advance of your visit. We will retrieve and hold your materials in the Rubenstein Library Reading Room.

When You Arrive

  • We'll also ask to see your Duke Card or other photo ID when you arrive to get you signed in. Your DukeCard on your phone is fine.
  • On your first visit, we will need to take photograph of you to include in your researcher account. This is required and allows us to confirm your identity each time you visit our reading room. Your photo will be confidential, and we will not share it.

What Can I Bring Into the Reading Room?

  • Camera
  • Cellphone (set to silent or vibrate)
  • Laptop (without its sleeve or bag)
  • Loose leaf paper (we will need to punch a hole in it)
  • Pencils
  • USB drive

We have lockers and locks that you can use to store your other belongings that cannot come into the reading room with you, such as:

  • Bags, purses, and pouches
  • Notebooks, note pads, binders, and folders
  • Drinks (including water bottles)
  • Food
  • Pens
  • Scanners
  • Lighting equipment

Inside the Reading Room

  • Ensure your hands are clean before you handle materials.
  • You must use materials in the reading room, as they do not circulate.
  • You will be given a cart of material, please remove only one box or one volume at a time.
  • Security cameras monitor the reading room at all times.
  •  Staff will ask to inspect anything you brought into the reading room, such as a laptop or notebook, as you leave the room.

Making Scans

  • Use one of our HoverCams, a high-resolution, standalone document camera. HoverCams attach to your Mac or Windows computer and allow you to save images directly to your laptop. 
  • Bring your camera or camera phone into the Rubenstein reading room to snap digital photos of materials.
  • For high-resolution scans, audiovisual material, or material that requires special handling, place a reading room reproduction request. Your reproductions will be delivered electronically following your research visit.