Archival Resources | Regulations for Use of the Archives Collection

The Archives Collection

The Archives Program provides comprehensive information about NBS/NIST historical programs and accomplishments by collecting, documenting, organizing and preserving significant archival materials.

Archival Resources

• Oral History Collection - Recollections of distinguished scientists and program managers from NBS/NIST
• Photograph Collection - Photos of NBS/NIST research activities, events, and portraits from early days to the present
• NIST Virtual Timeline - Track NIST's recent history, 1994-2001, using the NIST Virtual Timeline
• "A Century of Excellence in Measurements, Standards, and Technology - A Chronicle of Selected NBS/NIST Publications, 1901 - 2000" - Selected NIST-authored publications that highlight important NIST research over the last century
• NIST Organization Charts, 1991-2001 - Charts that depict NIST changes in leadership from 1991 to 2001
• Subject Files - Research materials on activities, projects, affiliations and research relating to NBS/NIST
• Biographical Files - Biographical information on current and former NBS/NIST Staff
• Oral History Collection Transcript/Cassette Index - Transcripts and recording tapes of interviews with NBS/NIST distinguished scientists dating back to 1953. Alphabetically arranged by interviewee.
• Video, Cassette and Slide Collections - Audio visual materials relating to NBS/NIST activities
• Collected papers and correspondence of distinguished scientists - Recorded research and correspondence of notable NBS/NIST staff
• Archival copies of all NBS/NIST publications - Each NBS/NIST publication is kept in the Archives Collection.
• Directories - NBS/NIST telephone directories from the early 1900s to the present time
• Portraits - Photos of NBS/NIST Directors, scientists, engineers and program managers
• Museum artifact files - Materials and resources related to artifacts displayed in the NIST Museum

Regulations for Use of the Archives Collection

• Researchers must complete a registration form and present a photo ID upon first visit
• All materials must be signed in and out at the Reference Desk; be used in the Reading Room area; and returned by 5:00 p.m. or close of business
• Photocopy of materials is subject to approval by a librarian or the historian based on the fragility of items
• Copies of photos are scanned upon request
• Archives stacks are not open; requestors' materials are delivered to the Reference Desk
• Borrowing or loaning of archival materials is not permitted
• Materials are handled with care; archival procedures are implemented when appropriate
• All permissions to quote unpublished material must be obtained in writing from the Chief of the Information Services Division and from any additional sources.  Researchers are responsible for awareness of the laws of literary property rights, libel, privacy and copyright.