Guidance for Scholars Working at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
The National Archives Building in Washington, DC houses a Research Room that is open to the public, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, by appointment only[2][3]. To ensure access and support from staff, it is highly recommended to schedule visits in advance, ideally 3-4 weeks ahead[3].
Upon arrival, researchers must present a valid research card at the security desk in the Central Research Room[4]. Researchers aged 14 and above are eligible to use the Research Room[1].
Inside the Research Room, researchers are allowed to use their personal computers, approved scanners, tape recorders, cameras, and other equipment[1]. However, cases, bags, and boxes must be stored in lockers, which can be rented for a quarter and refunded when the locker key is returned[5].
Researchers may bring approved loose paper research notes, hand-held wallets, and coin purses into the research rooms[1]. For writing, paper and pencils are provided, but pens and notebooks are not allowed[6].
Catering to the needs of researchers, The Charters Café is open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday[4]. The Metrorail System in Washington, DC serves the National Archives at the Archives/Navy Memorial station (Green and Yellow Lines)[7]. Additionally, a free staff shuttle bus runs between the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, and the National Archives in College Park, Maryland[7].
A debit card system is used to pay for self-service copies in the Central Research Room[8]. A limited number of self-service copiers are located in the Central Research Room for paper-to-paper copies or scanning records onto a personal flash drive[8]. Copies made using self-service copiers cost 25¢ per page[5].
It's important to note that on-site parking is not available to the general public at the National Archives[9]. Furthermore, the shuttle service between the Washington, DC building and the College Park facility runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. hourly, which may affect research access logistics[3].
This information is current as of mid-2025.
References: 1. National Archives Research Room Guidelines 2. National Archives Research Room Appointment System 3. National Archives Research Room FAQ 4. National Archives Building Services 5. National Archives Self-Service Copiers 6. National Archives Writing Supplies 7. National Archives Transportation 8. National Archives Debit Card System 9. National Archives Parking Information
Researchers planning a visit to the National Archives Building's Research Room, open Monday through Friday, should schedule appointments at least 3-4 weeks in advance due to policy-and-legislation restrictions. In the midst of politics and general-news reporting, it is essential to adhere to the guidelines outlined in the National Archives Research Room Guidelines for a smooth visit, such as presenting a valid research card at the security desk and using personal computers while storing bags in lockers.
