All virtual services are available and some libraries are open for in-person use, while others remain closed through January 23, 2022. Learn more.
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That depends on the type of scanner and the size of the document file you create.
Most of the scanners can send files to your email. However, document files can easily become too large to email. Ways to keep your document size low include keeping the DPI to 200 or 300 (lower quality), making sure you're scanning in black and white, and scanning fewer pages at a time.
If your file is too large, we recommend that you scan and save to a USB drive (thumb drive, flash drive). If you don't have one with you or yours is incompatible with the scanner for any reason, you can borrow one from the Circulation desk in Widener and then use a desktop computer in the library to transfer it to an email.
If you have trouble while scanning, consult the Access Services Staff at the Circulation desk.
Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm
Friday-Saturday 9am-5pm
Sunday 12noon-7pm
Chat is intended for brief inquiries from the Harvard community.
Reach out to librarians and other reference specialists by email using our online form. We usually respond within 24 hours Monday through Friday.
Talk to a librarian for advice on defining your topic, developing your research strategy, and locating and using sources. Make an appointment now.
These services are intended primarily for Harvard University faculty, staff and students. If you are not affiliated with Harvard, please use these services only to request information about the Library and its collections.
Our chat reference and Research Appointment Request services are intended for Harvard affiliates. All others are welcome to submit questions using the form on this page.
We are happy to answer questions from all Harvard affiliates and from non-affiliates inquiring about the library's collections.
Unfortunately, we're unable to answer questions from the general public which are not directly related to Harvard Library services and collections.