Research Fees Policy

Library staff can conduct basic research for distance patrons. A research fee of $20.00 per half hour will be charged for research conducted by library staff, including a minimum fee of $20.00 for the first half hour. This fee is for staff time, and is due regardless of whether or not the desired information is located. Each half-hour fee includes up to ten (10) standard-sized scans at 300dpi. Additional scans require additional charges.

Patrons may also visit the archives to conduct their own research at no charge. Please contact the library to schedule an appointment.

Photocopies and Scans

Photocopies: $0.10 per page black and white $0.50 per page color

Scans of photographs and documents (standard sizes): $1.00 / scan at 300dpi

These prices apply to scans and photocopies of images and documents 11 x 17 inches or smaller. Scans of larger, non-standard sized materials are available upon request. Oversized scans require an extra charge of $20.00 per item.

Scans of maps, blueprints or other large format materials:  Contact us for pricing.

We prefer to deliver scans via email. Materials scanned to a CD will include an additional cost of $5.00 per CD, as well as any applicable shipping charges.

Postage and handling: $5.00 for packages sent by mail

All fees are based on current costs and are subject to change without notice. 

Copyright Restrictions

Some material may not be available for copying due to restrictions. All responsibility for copyright issues regarding reproducing and using reproductions must be assumed by the user. For any public use (including on a website, on a CD, in a video, in a PowerPoint presentation, etc.) or any public exhibit (including in a museum, business, office, etc.), a Permission Request Form must be submitted prior to use and additional fees will be charged if permission is granted. We will then issue a Letter of Permission.

Payment Options

The Library accepts cash (in person only), check, and money orders. All checks should be made out to Lake Superior State University Library.

We are unable to accept credit or debit cards.

Lake Superior State University Students, Faculty, and Staff

Fees may be waived for Lake Superior State University students, faculty, and staff using archival materials for educational purposes. Contact library staff for more information.