Except where noted, the papers are open to research according to the regulations of the Sophia Smith Collection. All tape recorded therapy sessions in Series IX are closed until January 1, 2033; an audio letter, Barbara Hammer to NPB, 1978 is closed until January 1, 2038; and selected personal correspondence is closed until January 1, 2028. All original audiovisual material is closed, so access to audiovisual materials may first require production of research copies.

The Sophia Smith Collection owns copyright to the unpublished writings of Noel Phyllis Birkby. Copyright to materials created by other individuals may be owned by those individuals or their heirs or assigns. It is the responsibility of the researcher to identify and satisfy the holders of all copyrights. Permission must be obtained from the Sophia Smith Collection to publish reproductions or quotations beyond "fair use."