Guidelines for Scholars at the National Archives in Washington D.C.
Exploring the Center for Legislative Archives: A Guide for Researchers
The Center for Legislative Archives, located within the National Archives in Washington, D.C., is a treasure trove for researchers seeking to delve into the history of Congress and American politics. Here's a rundown of what you can expect when visiting this fascinating institution.
Equipment and Access
Researchers are welcome to use their personal computers, flash drives, approved scanners, tape recorders, tape decks, cameras, and other equipment in the research rooms. However, cases, bags, and boxes must be stored in lockers, which can be rented for a quarter (refundable upon return of the key).
Copying and Payment
Copies made using the self-service copiers in the Central Research Room cost 25¢ per page. A limited number of self-service copiers are available, and a debit card system is used for payment. Staff will assist researchers in setting up their research card as a debit card.
Paperwork and Supplies
Paper and pencils are provided to researchers in the Central Research Room, but pens and notebooks are not allowed. Researchers must present a valid research card at the security desk in the Central Research Room.
Food and Refreshments
The Charters Café is open to researchers from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Other food options include eating outdoors on the Mall or at the U.S. Navy Memorial, or at nearby attractions such as the National Gallery of Art, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of the American Indian, National Air and Space Museum, and Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
Transportation
The Metrorail System in Washington, D.C., serves the National Archives at the Archives/Navy Memorial station (Green and Yellow Lines). A free staff shuttle bus runs between the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C., and the National Archives in College Park, Maryland, but it operates only on weekdays. On-site parking is not available to the general public near the National Archives.
Key Collections
Apart from the records of Congress and the Publications of the U.S. Government, the Center for Legislative Archives also holds additional important collections. These include personal papers and collections of individual members of Congress, indexed by state and member, and indexes of archival repositories and congressional collections maintained by the Center, organized by state and by member of Congress. The Modern Congressional and Political Papers Collection, with research guides for both former House Representatives and Senators from 1789 to 1987, is a significant part of these personal papers.
While other related archival materials, such as committee reports, hearings, and publications, are typically part of the larger National Archives or Government Publishing Office holdings, the emphasis at the Center for Legislative Archives is on collections documenting the legislative process and members’ contributions.
In summary, the Center for Legislative Archives offers researchers a wealth of resources, particularly in the area of congressional and political papers collections, especially personal papers of members, and the indexes guiding researchers to these archival collections.
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