Self-Service Copying: Using Your Own Equipment

The Library permits the use of personal copying equipment in all public areas of the Library, except the Keith Murdoch Gallery. All copying must comply with:

• any restrictions on special handling or usage conditions (as directed by the Library's authorised officers)
• the Commonwealth Copyright Act (1968) as amended
• the Information Privacy Act, Victoria (2000)
• State Library of Victoria by-laws
• any intellectual property rights of the State Library of Victoria.

For further information, see the Use of Personal Copying Equipment Policy and Operating Guidelines.

For information on commercial copying, see Services for the Media and Publishers.

Conditions for use of cameras and scanners

• Digital cameras may be used for copying Library material or photographing Library buildings and spaces. The use of flash is not recommended for text material as better results are usually obtained without. Flash photography is only permitted if it is unlikely to disturb other Library users.
• Camera tripods less than 50cm in height are permitted but must not damage collection material or inconvenience other patrons. Lighting tripods and large camera tripods are not permitted.
• Personal digital scanners that may damage collection items, such as flatbed scanners and other devices that make direct contact with the item, are not permitted.
• All photographic and other equipment carry bags must be presented for security inspection when leaving the Library.
• Collection material in print or digital formats can usually be copied. Additional conditions apply to copying in the Heritage Collections Reading Room.

The Library may:

• withdraw permission to use personal copying equipment within the Library at any time
• require the use of personal copying equipment to be carried out under the direct supervision of Library staff. In such cases a supervision fee will be charged. For further information, see Services for the Media and Publishers.

Due to copyright and privacy restrictions within the Australian Manuscripts and Pictures Collections, copying with personal photographic equipment is not permitted without the authorisation of the Collection Manager.