Get started
Details on visiting the Immigration History Research Center Archives, and information on how to find and use materials both in-person and online.
Researchers planning a visit
Make an appointment. Please request your materials at least 1 week in advance. This ensures we have time to reply and that your requested material is ready for you.
Please use the following email address (preferred): ihrca@umn.edu
Or call 612-625-4800. If calling from outside the US, dial 001-612-625-4800.
When you arrive at the Andersen Library, please register in room 15 in the Maxine Wallin Research Center (Wallin Center) on the ground floor. The staff in the Wallin Center will help you.
Our materials are used only in the Wallin Center reading room; they do not circulate.
The reading room and the Wallin Center at Andersen Library are open Monday, Tuesday, Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and Wednesday, Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 7 p.m most weeks.
Research services
Use of materials in the reading room
You are welcome to request up to 5 books, serial volumes, newspaper packages, or microfilm reels, or 10 manuscript collection boxes per request. Consult staff in advance of your visit; this will reduce your waiting time. Note: some items may not be available the same day.
IHRCA materials do not circulate; you may consult them in the reading room only.
Copies and copying
IHRC Archives materials may be photographed, if staff determine that physical condition allows it, and there are no restrictions. Restricted materials (for example case files) can generally be accessed in the reading room only and under special conditions. When using non-restricted materials, please bring a digital (cell phones and tablets allowed) or traditional camera with you. Consult IHRCA staff during your visit regarding your request to copy. Alternatively, copying services are available for a fee through Digital Library Services; consult with IHRCA staff during your visit.
Use of materials from a distance
Researchers not able to visit us in person can arrange for copying services provided by Digital Library Services. Contact us regarding your request. (Restricted materials - for example case files - can generally be accessed in the reading room only and under special conditions, no copies are allowed.)
Access and searching
Finding aids for IHRCA manuscript collections are available online. Additional container lists may be available upon request. Books and cataloged serials can be searched though the Libraries' catalog. For additional options, see the IHRCA search portals.
Microfilm equipment
A digital microfilm reader is available for patron use, and captured images can be saved (bring a flash drive) or emailed. Procedures for using this equipment are posted near the machine and our staff will be happy to assist you.
Preferred format for citation/credit
Example: "Anthony Capraro Papers, IHRC408, Box 10, Folder 4, Immigration History Research Center Archives, University of Minnesota."
Should the IHRC Archives prove to be a significant resource for a publication, please send a copy to us.
Off-site researchers
Please submit your inquiry in writing to the following email address: ihrca@umn.edu
We look forward to hearing from you!