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Our virtual reading room service allows you to view archival materials and rare books remotely via a mediated document camera. Researchers meet one-on-one with a member of library staff, who share the requested materials though a high-resolution document camera. The free, one-hour appointment takes place online via Zoom. Appointments are available from 10am-4pm (EST) Monday-Thursday and must be made at least 3 days in advance.
During a single appointment, researchers may view:
- One rare book, OR
- One box of archival material, OR
- Up to 10 folders
This service is best for researchers who want to evaluate materials before booking an in-person visit or before requesting a digital copy, which may take time to digitize. This service is not designed for close reading of archival materials.
The virtual reading room service is not a research consultation with a subject expert.
At this time, the virtual reading room cannot accommodate audiovisual materials, microfilm/microfiche, circulating books, uncataloged/unprocessed materials, fragile materials, oversized materials, or materials with access restrictions. Please contact nbl@aip.org for more information.