Core material is a finite resource that must be carefully apportioned for use in scientifically sound studies. Sample requests may originate from any scientist, curator, or educator with adequate resources to complete a scientific investigation, or who can prepare materials for curatorial or educational purposes. Requests for samples from archive-phase cores are evaluated carefully and, if approved, the requestor assumes several distinct responsibilities. In particular, the following specific rules govern sample requests:

• Requests for samples from archive-phase repository material are evaluated by a committee comprised of the curator and the LacCore External Advisory Group.
• Requestors must provide complete information about the intended use of the samples by filling out both Part 1 and Part 2 of the LacCore Sample Request Form. The information required is consistent with policies of other core repositories.
• The requestor must demonstrate sufficient funding and qualifications to perform the intended analyses.
• In the case of a new or unproven technique, a small batch of samples should be analyzed and results demonstrated before the full suite of samples are disbursed.
• Requests for particularly large sample volumes for destructive analyses will be carefully considered.
• The Curator must first be consulted if the requestor desires to perform analyses on the samples beyond the scope identified in the sample request.
• Unused sample (residuals) must be returned to the repository, to be re-disbursed whenever possible.
• One copy of all publications and data from LacCore samples must be sent to the Curator. These materials must be filed within five years, and before any future sample requests by the same investigator.
• Requestors are required to acknowledge LacCore in all presentations and publications resulting from analyses of samples obtained from the Repository collection.
• Requestors must use the LacCore sample identification system in published reports, or provide a clear correspondence between the LacCore system and another system.