Scope
This framework applies to access requests from entities whose requirements fall outside the standard visitor, researcher, or member categories. This includes entities of non-standard morphology, temporality, or substrate; entities without fixed identity or stable physical presence; entities requiring access to collections for reasons connected to their custodial or experiential relationship with an object; and entities unable to interact with the institution through ordinary channels.
Access categories
Access under this framework is available in four forms: mediated visit (entity accesses collections through an appointed intermediary); supervised direct access (entity accesses site under specific agreed conditions); remote or signal-mediated access (entity interacts with collections through non-standard communication); and custodial consultation (entity is consulted in connection with an object to which they are recognised as having a relationship).
Identification and verification
The Athenaeum does not require entities to produce identification in the standard sense. Verification of identity — to the extent necessary for access to be meaningful — is managed through the relevant partner organisation or custody liaison. Where no ordinary verification is possible, the Registrar makes an assessment based on the nature of the access requested and the risk involved.
Entities without stable identity
Access by entities whose identity is not stable across the duration of a visit is handled case by case. The Registrar will record the access under the most stable descriptor available at the time of the visit and note the instability. This does not affect the validity of any consultation or custodial record arising from the visit.