4 replies to this topic

[cubanmiamiboy]

Hi!
During my upcoming visit to NYC I would like to visit the NYPL and see some archive ballet films.  What's the formal procedure to do a request...? Does it has to be one at a time..? Does it has to be in writing...? In advance...? Does one has to be a member of the library...?

[sandik]

cubanmiamiboy, on May 22 2010, 03:20 PM, said:

Hi!
During my upcoming visit to NYC I would like to visit the NYPL and see some archive ballet films.  What's the formal procedure to do a request...? Does it has to be one at a time..? Does it has to be in writing...? In advance...? Does one has to be a member of the library...?

Oh, this is one of my favorite places in the whole world!  You will have a wonderful time.

My biggest suggestion is to use their online catalog to choose what you want to look at before you go.  Don't waste your library time browsing if you're on a schedule.  

Here are some details about the facility.  I'm not absolutely sure what the current procedure is, since the libraries have had budget cutbacks recently that have limited the staffing -- I think I've heard that now you have to file your request on one floor and then go up to the viewing stations on the next floor.

[California]

cubanmiamiboy, on May 22 2010, 08:20 AM, said:

. . . Does one have to be a member of the library...?

Yes, but this wasn't a problem for me, even though I'm out-of-state. Last time I visited, I was required to fill out some paperwork and get a photo ID for Access to the Research Libraries, which they make for you the same day. They needed to see some photo ID (I believe my driver's license was enough). The card they issue with the photo does not have an expiration date on it, although it has a barcode on the back that might have something embedded. The fact that I was from out-of-state didn't restrict my access to the collection. But do allow time to get the ID. Especially with the staff cut-backs sandik mentions, it's possible the office that makes these IDs will have limited hours.

[cubanmiamiboy]

GRACIAS!!!  

[4mrdncr]

When I was there in March, they said my Access card (I'm out of state too), was no longer being used and I had to get a new card--it appears to be a NYPL card with no picture!?  I still do not understand why I had to do this, but nevetheless, I was still able to access the film/video archive and copy some articles I was researching. When I ran out of time, (the staff had lost my request, then spent 45 minutes to locate the books), a librarian offered to copy the article for me (but the copy machine was broken) and then mail it to me--which he ;later did (gratis.)  :-)  
Yes, they can be short-staffed at times, or not always staffed by experienced persons, but at least the effort is made to be helpful. And because the archive is such a valuable resource, and the experienced staff are always knowledgeable and helpful, I am still VERY grateful and appreciative of all their efforts.