NYC Performing Arts Library Archive Question

[Littleshopofcarrie]

Posted: 10/28/13 at 9:27pm

For some reason I stumbled upon the Library of Performing Arts NYC website and saw the archival video section where it talks about appointments. How do they work? How uses them, directors and producers who are reviving something?

[GlindatheGood22]

Posted: 10/28/13 at 9:28pm

Whatever you do don't tell them you're there because you never got to see whatever show you're looking for. The librarian gave me such a tongue lashing that I'm scared to ever go back!

[When I get low...]

Posted: 10/28/13 at 10:34pm

In fairness to the librarian who gave the "tongue lashing," the archive has a strict policy on access and they are open about it on their website: The Archive is available to theatre professionals, students, or researchers with work or study-related reasons for viewing. (https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa/theatre-film-and-tape-archive)

They even provide further specific information the original poster might find helpful, on "Using the Archive": https://www.nypl.org/locations/tid/55/node/92121

The archive probably expects their users to learn how to use the items in the collection before they show up and request an item. Like most libraries and archives, the TOFT operates with a policy for accessing their materials. This preserves the collection from wear, tear, and abuse and preserves the resources of the repository (i.e. staff time, technology use). This helps to ensure that the materials are used properly and for the purpose of the collection. Additionally, the materials at the TOFT have special labor and copyright considerations that must be observed and have implications on access. One should know about these library policies before assuming you have a right to access materials and consequently being disappointed when you arrive at the library. It's a respect for the collection and institution.

The purpose of the TOFT collection isn't to give anyone the opportunity to see a show "you never got to see." If you want to do that, other threads discuss ways to gain access by spinning your need in a way that fits their policy, just search:
https://forum.broadwayworld.com/readmessage.php?thread=1063237
https://forum.broadwayworld.com/readmessage.php?thread=1052546
https://forum.broadwayworld.com/readmessage.php?thread=986152&page=1

[Borstalboy]

Posted: 10/28/13 at 10:50pm

If you tell them you are an actor or director and are looking to research a specific production or performance, I have found they don't really probe much further. Avoid going on Fridays and Saturdays as those days are usually full up.

[Gothampc]

Posted: 10/29/13 at 12:09am

In fairness to the taxpayer, there would be no Library Archive without taxpayer support. The Library should be a bit more accessible with the collection.

[Littleshopofcarrie]

Posted: 10/29/13 at 3:05pm

So I can just go in saying I'm an actor and they'll let me see any archive I want?

[latitudex1]

Posted: 10/29/13 at 3:25pm

In fairness to the taxpayer, there would be no Library Archive without taxpayer support. The Library should be a bit more accessible with the collection.

I would imagine that that's largely not in NYPL's discretion.

[eperkins]

Posted: 10/29/13 at 4:53pm

Some items in the library require special permission to view. And by "special permission," I mean you need to submit a written request, and the actual rights holders review the request and decide whether or not to grant access. I don't know how many items are protected to this extent, but I know of at least one with these requirements.

[ghostlight2]

Posted: 10/29/13 at 4:58pm

In my experience, eperkins, very few have that requirement, but some of them certainly do exist. To the OP: just come up with a plausible reason. You're writing a book report, an article for the local paper. A thesis. You're doing research for a book. Your community theater is doing the show. You're trying out for a role. Keep it simple. They usually don't push.

Good luck.

[someone.else's.story2]

Posted: 10/30/13 at 11:53am

Agreed. Simply come up with a plausible reason like you're auditioning for that show, a theater near you is considering producing it, you're writing a paper, etc and it will be fine.