Copies of HU Dissertations???

I was asked recently about best practices for handling the frequent questions in "Ask a Librarian" about obtaining copies of Harvard dissertations.

We handle the basic questions.  While there are a variety of possible permutations and glitches that can happen with these questions, it’s usually pretty simple: 

• ·         Pre-1982 Dissertations.  Refer patrons to Imaging Services for Arts & Sciences dissertations, by far the most commonly requested.  Not Arts & Sciences? Refer to other schools as appropriate.

• ·         1982-present.  Patrons should use Proquest, not Imaging. Harvard affiliates can download from Dissertations and Theses Full Text, and non-affiliates can purchase copies from  Proquest directly at 1-800-521-3042.  This is true even for many theses that are not listed as available full-text.  Call PQ to make sure.  Many restricted dissertations can also be copied with the author’s permission.  It’s the responsibility of the patron, not us, to track down authors in those cases.  (Hint – ask the department.)

• ·         Photocopies of undergraduate honors theses older than five years can be ordered through Imaging.

• ·         Contact the Archives only if you can’t find the Dissertation/Thesis, or there is some other question/issue/problem.  Local patrons can also order limited copies at the Archives in Pusey.

 I hope this clears up some confusion.  It something is unclear, send it to Archives. 

Debbie K-M