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Archival Research Room, Policies and Procedures

• Information for NEW RESEARCHERS
• Archival Research Room Procedures
• Parking, Security and Food Service

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New Researchers:

An Archival Research Room attendant will issue all new researchers a "Researcher Identification Card." A current government, school or employer-issued photo identification (e.g.: driver's license/state ID) is required to obtain this card. New researchers must also complete NA Form 14003 (Researcher Application)to indicate that they have read and understand General Information Leaflet 57, "Guidelines for Using Historical Records in the National Archives." First time researchers are required to undergo a 5 - 10 minute Research Room orientation prior to admittance.

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Archival Research Room Procedures:

General Guidelines:

Personal belongings will be reviewed by an attendant as you arrive and depart the Research Room.

• Pens are NOT permitted in the Research Room. Pencils and NARA approved paper are provided.
  
  
• Researchers desiring to carry in loose notes must have those pages reviewed. All pre-written notes will be marked with a "NARA APPROVED" stamp prior to entry.
  
  
• Books, folders, unstamped documents, etc. are NOT permitted in the Research Room.
  
  
• Hand-held wallets and/or coin purses may be brought in but are subject to inspection upon request.

Free lockers are available and all personal items, such as briefcases, boxes, purses, laptop cases, etc., must be stored there. Lockers must be emptied nightly.

Guidelines for Electronic Equipment:

Computers, scanners and cameras are allowed with prior approval. If you intend to bring electronic equipment, please state this when scheduling your appointment.

1. Laptop computers and scanners:
   
   
   • Cases must be left in a locker.
     
     
   • Scanners with document feeders are not allowed, and the glass surface of the scanner must be larger than the document being scanned.
     
     
   • Computers and scanners will be inspected and approved upon arrival and will be inspected upon departure for loose documents.
     
     
2. Cameras:
   
   
   • For security reasons, cameras are NOT allowed within the NPRC without prior approval.
   • If you intend to bring a camera, please contact the Archival Research Room at 314-801-0850. You will need to get prior approval before bringing a camera into the facility- prior approval may take up to 2 weeks.
   • For preservation purposes, cameras must have the ability to turn off flash.
     
     
   • A camera table-mount is available in the Research Room, upon request. Please request in advance.

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Parking | Security | Food Service

The NPRC offers free parking to visitors. Please have government-issued photo identification ready when you arrive at the NPRC complex (exception: children under age 16). Drivers must consent to a vehicle search by security personnel at the gate.

Children under 14 will not be admitted.