General Scanning & Copying
The Library provides photocopying and printing options in most, but not all research centers. Each research center maintains their own policies regarding the use of personal laptops, scanners, and digital cameras, including any restrictions.
Researchers should visit each individual research center website for their specific policies regarding copying of collection material, and what equipment is permitted. In some cases, the ability to make copies of collection material depends on the physical condition of the items. For preservation concerns, staff will assist in evaluating the condition of collection material to determine if it can be photographed or scanned. No flash photography is permitted.
There is no fee for printing/copying/scanning in the Library's research centers. Subject to copyright and rights restrictions, patron-supplied flash drives may generally be used to save images from computers, overhead scanners, and digital microfilm/microfiche machines. When using a public workstation, users can save files to a personal USB storage device. Bear in mind that USB devices occasionally may not work as expected due to the operating system format compatibility between the LC workstations and scanners, and the users’ home machines.
Planning to print at the Library? Watch the PrintMe Quicktour on YouTube external link to learn more.
Copyright Restrictions
Researchers should be aware of the restrictions on photocopying and publication imposed by the Copyright Act of 1976. It is the responsibility of the user or their publishers to determine the copyright status or obtain the required permissions prior to publication of material from the Library's collections. Please be aware that not everything is in the public domain. Keep in mind copyright and other restrictions associated with the collections. If you are planning to photocopy, download, publish, or distribute copies of items or images from our collections, be prepared to do some research or risk assessment. The Library of Congress does not hold rights to items in the collections and therefore is not in a position to grant or deny permission to use them. Tips for assessing risks, including the duration of copyright, can be found on the website for the US Copyright Office and more about copyright and other restrictions from the Library's Legal team.
Duplication Services
Duplication Services also provides access to the collections of the Library of Congress in multiple reproduction formats and copy options for a fee. Information about pricing and placing an order is available on the Duplication Services website. Researchers can also learn more by watching this 2024 National Book Festival: Getting Your Hands on History presentation by Duplication Services staff.