Ask Us
- Review the FAQ before using the Ask Us Form to submit research questions to the Reference staff.
- For non research-related inquiries, see Contact a Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I find out if the Archives has information on an artist or artwork?
A: Begin browsing in Research Collections, or go to Advanced Search, and try typing in the name of the artist or artwork. This searches all of our collections and oral history interviews.
Q: How can I view a collection?
A: Each collection is different, so there is no single answer. First, find the collection you wish to use, either here on the Archives' web site, or in the Smithsonian Institution's SIRIS Archives, Manuscripts and Photographs Catalog. Note whether some or all of the collection is available online or on microfilm:
- Online: Selected collections, digitized in their entirety, are available in Collections Online.
- Microfilm:
- View Microfilm at a Research Center--use microfilmed collections at the Archives' offices in Washington, DC or NYC, or at one of 4 affiliated research centers around the country. See Hours & Locations.
- Borrow microfilm through Interlibrary Loan--if you do not live near a research center, ask your school or public librarian to borrow the microfilm from us. Direct your librarian to http://www.aaa.si.edu/interlibraryloan/
- Original Materials: Use of collections that have not been microfilmed or digitized requires an appointment and a visit to our Washington, DC manuscript reading room. As space in the manuscript reading room is limited, please submit your appointment request as far in advance of your planned visit as possible. Minimum one week advance notice strongly advised. Use the Ask Us Form to request an appointment.
Q: Can the Archives of American Art tell me how much an artwork or archival documents might be worth?
A: No, we are not permitted to give appraisals nor advise you on how much an object or collection may be worth. We recommend the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s online resource, Researching Your Art.
Q: How may I donate papers or archival records to the Archives?
A: Contact our Manuscripts Curator. See Donating Papers.
Q: How do I get permission to publish documents or images?
A: First, review our Copyright Statement, and then submit your request via the Ask Us Form. It is the researcher's responsibility to secure permission to publish both from the Archives of American Art and from the appropriate persons or institutions that hold the rights to the material. Archives staff will try to inform researchers when permission to publish should be sought elsewhere, but ultimate responsibility lies with the researcher.
Q: How do I cite documents or microfilm from AAA's collections?
A: Our microfilm collections are owned either by the Archives of American Art or by another organization or individual. In a research paper, citations should read as follows:
- If owned by the Archives: Collection name, Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution. [Microfilm reel numbers].
- If owned by another organization: Collection name. Owned by [Organization name]; microfilmed by the Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution. [Microfilm reel numbers].
- If owned by an individual: Collection name. Owned by [owners name]; microfilmed by the Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution. [Microfilm reel numbers]
Q: Does the Archives of American Art lend documents for exhibition?
A: Yes, under certain circumstances. See Borrowing Documents for Exhibitions.
Ask Us / Reference Form
Use this form to ask research questions, to request a reproduction or permission to publish an image, or to make a manuscript reading room appointment. Minimum one week advance notice for appointments strongly advised.