We recommend that you gather information using the research literature prior to starting your own search for sources. At our reference library, you have the opportunity to access not only a great number of publications but also unpublished printed works.
The Archives’ Internet offering features comfortable search options along the plan of record groups. Many finding aids can already be viewed online.
As an alternative the archives records can be searched on the platform Archivportal-D, where a lot of German archives make their contact data, descriptive information and digital copies accessible.
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We will be pleased to research into the sources that are relevant to your research topic and make them available to you in a timely manner. The most efficient way to process your request is if you send us a written inquiry.
Since archival materials are irreplaceable unique items, viewing the originals is only possible in the Reading Room. Here, the staff of the Archives will be pleased to advise you and will help you find further relevant documents for your individual question. Several collections have meanwhile undergone digitization. Read more about these collections and their use here.
If you visit the Archives personally, safe-deposit boxes and lockers are available for the safe storage of bags and jackets. A catering facility does not exist at our premises. However, there are a few snack bars located at a walking distance where you can enjoy a light meal during your break.
In the Reading Room, notebooks, tablets and smart phones may be used for research purposes as long as this is being done silently. You can also use our Wi-Fi network for this purpose. The wording of the Terms of Use of our Archives and the Reading Room Regulations can be found here.
When using archival materials, retention periods are to be observed. For more details, please see here.
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An incident light scanner is available to you for the creation of reproductions. Your scans will first be saved on the Archives’ own USB sticks. After use, the staff of the Archives will transmit the files to you.
The use of finding aids and archival materials at the Archives of the Max Planck Society as well as the creation of reproductions are free of charge.
fig.: Archives of the Max Planck Society: Corridor, Reading Room, Technical Reading Room