Since opening to the public in 1979, the Archives of Scientific Philosophy has been used by researchers from many countries and academic disciplines, including philosophy, history of science, German literature, political science, sociology, economics, and educational theory. To date many books, scholarly articles, and dissertations that draw on the collections have been published. These works are listed in a bibliography (PDF) updated annually by the staff of the Archives.

Photocopying allows patrons unable to visit Pittsburgh or Konstanz to use the Archives at a distance. For a modest fee copies of nonsequestered materials can be made and mailed to scholars anywhere in the world.

Researchers using the Archives by mail are asked to submit questions that are as specific as possible. Written inquiries are most effectively answered when proper names and dates are included. Scholars who anticipate using material extensively without travelling to Pittsburgh or Konstanz may purchase inventories to the various collections to aid their research. Those planning to visit the Archives will make the most of their time on site by becoming familiar with these inventories before arriving.

In cases where the University of Pittsburgh does not hold copyright to material in the ASP, the curator will assist scholars in applying to the proper authority for permission to publish items of interest or to make lengthy quotations from them. Permission to make moderate quotations or to paraphrase sources for scholarly publication can often be granted directly by the Archives, which will provide researchers with an application for this purpose. In order to protect the royalty rights of literary heirs, all patrons are required to sign routine forms specifying conditions of use.

During the summer months (May through August) the Center for Philosophy of Science offers assistance, including office space and help with housing, to scholars who wish to come to Pittsburgh to use the Archives of Scientific Philosophy. Such assistance is sometimes possible at other times of the year. Contact the Center directly for details.

All visitors to the Archives of Scientific Philosophy are asked to schedule appointments with the curator in advance. As part of Hillman Library's Special Collections Department, the Archives is open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Material does not circulate and must be used in the Special Collections Reading Room.