Library of Congress

Duplication Services

The Library of Congress > Duplication Services > Customer Service > Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What products do you offer?

Duplications Services provides access to the collections of the Library of Congress through a wide variety of high quality reproduction services such as:

  • Digital High Res Images, Scans, Prints
  • Microfilm Reel Duplication
  • Paper Photocopies
  • Certifications

How do I place an order?

Duplication orders must be submitted in writing. The methods to submit orders are:

What is the cost?

The cost is determined by the type of reproduction, method of production, and method of delivery. We can provide customers with an estimate once we have the reproduction, call, or control number. For more details on pricing, please refer to our website at //www.loc.gov/duplicationservices, or you may contact Customer Service at 202.707.5640 Monday-Friday from 8:00am-4:00pm (EST).

Can I pay over the phone?

We do not accept payments over the phone however, you can submit your payment online via our secure payment page at www.pay.gov. We also accept payment via check, money order, and EFT.Instructions for these payments options can be found at //www.loc.gov/dupliationservices/ordering-instructions.

What is the turnaround time?

Our turnaround time is based on the format and type of materials you are requesting. Digital Scans and Prints estimated turnaround time is 4 weeks
Research orders estimated turnaround time is 6 weeks
Microfilm orders estimated turnaround time is 3 months

Is there a Rush service?

Yes, we offer a Rush service for most material for an added fee:
Same Day Rush
Up to 5 days Rush
Up to 10 days Rush
The Cost associated with the Rush Services varies based on the cost of the materials ordered. For more information contact [email protected]

Do you edit/customize images?

We do not edit or customize images. The quality of the reproduction is based on the condition of the material itself. This means our scans are an exact replica of the original source.

What are the scanning specs for negative material?

Duplication Services has set guidelines for scanning. Our specifications are:

  • B&W negatives: 8-bit grayscale
  • Color negatives/transparencies: 24-bit RGB
  • File Format: Uncompressed TIFF
From negatives
Negative size DPI Specifications
35 mm 3200
2 1/4 x2 1/4" 2400
4 x 5" 1200
5 x 7" 800
8 x 10" 600

How long will an emailed file be available for download?

The e-mail service is a delivery service. You should download the files immediately and save them to a dependable hard drive. Files are deleted from the server after approximately one week, and have a limit of three (3) downloads per file.

Can I get a jpeg image?

Yes, you may receive a jpeg for an additional fee plus the cost of the image.