PIRC Collections and Online Catalog
The search interface is designed to be user-friendly. The collections are organized to be accessible by searching for specific items as well as browsable by Building/Site, and more information can be found in our PIRC Quick Reference Guide. Read below for some PIRC Collections descriptions and search tips for using our online catalog:
PIRC Collections Descriptions
Architectural and Technical Drawings
This collection documents the design, construction, and subsequent renovation of Harvard University’s built environment. We have drawings as early as 1840, but the bulk of this collection dates from the 20th century. The drawings in this collection come from Capital level projects at Harvard. There may be some gaps in the collections, as well as some drawings from non-capital level projects. This collection is organized by Building/Site, and is comprised of Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing drawings as well as Architectural drawings like Sections and Elevations.
Maps, Surveys and Infrastructure Drawings
This collection documents the Harvard University environment, focusing on Cambridge, Allston, and Longwood Medical Area. The collection includes Base Maps, Utility Maps, Historic Maps, Site Plans, Campus Infrastructure Drawings, and Zoning Maps going back to the 19th century. Our Maps, Surveys and Infrastructure collection contains historical information only. You will not find existing condition utility information in this collection.
Related Project Documentation
The Related Project Documentation collection includes records such as Arc Flash Studies, Commissioning Reports, Shop Drawings, Operations & Maintenance Manuals, Specifications/Project Manuals, and Building Permits. These records vary widely depending on project scope, and are not cataloged to item level like Architectural and Technical Drawings and Maps, Surveys and Infrastructure Drawings. Prior to 2020 most of these records were submitted as hard copy only and are stored off site. Much of the collection after 2020 is available in digital format.
Deeds and Site Files
These collections consist of Deeds, Easements, and Agreements for Cambridge and Boston, and other communities where Harvard owns land. Additionally, they document the essential elements of property acquisition and history, and may include Corporate Votes, correspondence regarding acquisitions, building history, Closing Binders, Offers, Purchase and Sale Agreements, and Leases.
Photographs
Our Photographs collection comprises aerial and oblique views of Cambridge and Boston, and relevant portions of neighboring communities. Exterior building photos and details of architectural elements are also available, as are photos of plaques and gates associated with Harvard Yard and Radcliffe Yard. Many of the photographs in our collection are available for viewing in our online catalog. These are generally exterior shots of buildings around campus along with some historic photos.
Subsurface Soil Data Reports
This collection is comprised of Geotechnical Reports related to Harvard University properties. This collection is highly restricted and not available for general use.
PIRC Search Tips and FAQs
Q: How do I request access to PIRC collections?
A: To request access to PIRC collections, users must complete a PIRC patron request form. Please note that cross-tub requests must have approval from the building owner on campus before access to PIRC materials can be granted. A PIRC patron request form must be completed for each request and include the name of your Harvard Project Manager. Please note that all requests from university affiliates and external contractors must include a request form with each request. Feel free to save a copy of the form and submit an updated copy for each request. This form includes a digital signature field, so there is no need to print the form to sign it. Simply fill it out, save it, and send it as an attachment.
Q: Are PIRC collections available for academic use?
A: Academic research is not the mission of the PIRC, rather the PIRC is an administrative repository of proprietary information supporting Harvard’s planning, construction, and facilities maintenance communities. Typical access policies for educational use differ significantly from the policies of the PIRC. PIRC will provide materials to Harvard faculty for use in an academic setting to the best of our ability and according to our mission. Please note that the only drawings that the PIRC will make available to Harvard researchers without special permission are exterior elevations provided they do not contain any sensitive building information and other views such as photographs which may be seen from the street. If you are a student or other external researcher, please check our website and read our guidelines regarding access and complete our academic request form.
Q: How do I find what documentation is available for a Building / Site or building addresses?
A: At the PIRC catalog, type in the name of the building you are looking for (use quotes as seen below) or browse the building list. Click on the “Building/Sites” link to go to building information, including building address. Click on the “Objects” link to see all available drawings and documentation for the building, or “Projects” to see all available projects. For more information about searching the catalog see the PIRC Quick Reference Guide.
Q: Can I get a list of all drawings for a building?
A: Yes, email us at pirc@harvard.edu and ask us for one. We call them “redbook” inventories, and they are available as PDFs.
Q: Are there any drawings available online?
A: We have a small amount of exterior Architectural Elevations and exterior building photographs available for viewing in our online catalog. To view what is available, click on the “Advanced Search” link under the search bar and scroll down and check the box labeled “On View.” When you click the red “Search” button, all items available for public viewing in the catalog are listed.
Q: I found what I am looking for. How do I request specific documentation or drawings?
A: Once you have identified the items you wish to request, send us a list of Object Numbers along with the necessary patron request form at pirc@harvard.edu and we will provide you with access.
Q: I can’t find what I need. What do I do?
A: Send us an email at pirc@harvard.edu and let us know what you are looking for. We are happy to help.
