1. What is Aeon?
Aeon is a software system which allows researchers to submit online requests for items in The Bancroft Library’s collections. You can use Aeon to register online, manage your registration information, and track your research requests and research history online from any computer. Previously, registration and material requests were handled manually in person.
2. Why is The Bancroft Library using Aeon?
We’re using Aeon to improve our services for researchers and to make it easier to register, request materials, keep track of research, and manage duplication and permissions orders online. Aeon is widely used by other special collections libraries and archives to enable faster and more efficient access to research materials.
3. Do all Bancroft Library researchers need to use Aeon?
Yes. All of our registration, requests, and duplication and permissions services are handled through Aeon. We no longer provide options for manual registration or requesting via paper forms. Library staff will assist on-site researchers with creating an Aeon account and with submitting requests. Please also see the Register and Request Materials tabs in this guide for more information.
4. Can I still request to use manuscripts / photographs / books / etc?
Yes! Books, periodicals, and other materials without finding aids can be requested through the UC Berkeley Library catalog, UC Library Search. If an item in the catalog is located at The Bancroft Library, the record will display a SPECIAL COLLECTIONS REQUEST link.
Manuscript and pictorial collections can be requested via the collection finding aid on the Online Archive of California (OAC). You can locate the collection finding aid by searching UC Library Search and following the link in the record ("OAC Finding Aid") or by searching OAC directly. Once you find the collection you need, you can request materials using the "Request items" link.
Please make note of The Bancroft Library's Conditions of Use before requesting materials for use in the Reading Room.
5. Can library staff assist with research requests?
Absolutely. Bancroft Library staff can provide expert assistance to researchers and will be available to help with Aeon registration, searching for materials, submitting requests, and answering reference questions. You can visit us in person during our open hours, send an email to bancref@library.berkeley.edu, or call the Reference Desk at (510) 642-6481.
6. How do I request photocopies, digital scans, and / or permission services in Aeon?
7. How do I sign up to use Aeon?
Anyone can sign up to use Aeon for free. UC Berkeley students, staff, and faculty can sign up using their CalNet ID and password. Please visit https://aeon.berkeley.edu or see the Register section of this guide.
8. Why do I need a username and password to use Aeon?
Your username and password allows us to give you secure access to information about your requests.
Your username can be anything you like, such as your name, abbreviations, or an alphanumeric code. Your password also can be anything you like. We recommend that you follow good security practice and choose a password that is different from those you use to access other systems. However, no one but you will know your password, not even the special collections staff. The password you set is stored encrypted.
9. What if I forget my password?
In the event that you forget your password, please use the "Forgot Password?" link on the Aeon login page at aeon.berkeley.edu. You will be prompted to enter your Aeon username. Aeon will send a password reset link to your email address, which will allow you to select a new password.
10. What Web browser should I use?
You need a Web browser that can handle forms, tables, and preferably cascading style sheets (CSS). We recommend the current versions of either Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome.
11. Should I be concerned about security if I use a public workstation?
Yes. Web browsers cache information and create a history file on the local workstation. This allows a subsequent user of the workstation to access the system under your name using the browser’s Back button to recall a page from the cache, or by finding a page with your personal information in the browser’s history file. If you are concerned about the security of your requests, you can take the following steps:
12. Help! Who do I contact if I have problems with or questions about Aeon?
Please send an email to banc-aeon@berkeley.edu. Please note that emails sent to this address can only be answered during normal Library business hours, Monday-Friday between 10:00am - 5:00pm.
13. Why does my browser say that you’re sending a cookie? What’s in it?
The technology that we use sends a Session ID to be stored on your machine. You can refuse this cookie and still be able to use Aeon without any problems.
Help! Who do I contact if I have a question about Aeon?
Please send an email to banc-aeon@berkeley.edu. Please note that emails sent to this address can only be answered during normal Library business hours, Monday-Friday between 10:00am - 5:00pm.
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