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ELECTRONIC CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS
e-CFR data is current as of April 28, 2017
Title 36 → Chapter XII → Subchapter G → Part 1280
Title 36: Parks, Forests, and Public Property
PART 1280—USE OF NARA FACILITIES
Contents
Subpart A—What Are the General Rules of Conduct on NARA Property?
GENERAL INFORMATION ON USING NARA FACILITIES
§1280.1 What is the purpose of this part?
§1280.2 What property is under the control of the Archivist of the United States?
§1280.4 What items are subject to inspection by NARA?
§1280.6 Can children under the age of 14 use NARA facilities?
§1280.8 May I bring a seeing-eye dog or other assistance animal?
§1280.10 Are there special rules for driving on NARA property?
§1280.12 Is parking available?
§1280.14 May I use the shuttle bus to travel to the National Archives at College Park or to the National Archives Building
in Washington, DC?
§1280.16 Are there additional rules posted?
PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
§1280.18
§1280.20
§1280.22
§1280.24
§1280.26
§1280.28
§1280.30
§1280.32
§1280.34
§1280.36

May I bring guns or other weapons onto NARA property?
What is your policy on illegal drugs and alcohol?
Is gambling allowed on NARA property?
Is smoking allowed on NARA property?
May I pass out fliers on NARA property?
Where can I eat and drink on NARA property?
Are soliciting, vending, and debt collection allowed on NARA property?
What other behavior is not permitted?
What are the types of corrective action NARA imposes for prohibited behavior?
May I file an appeal if I am banned from NARA facilities?

Subpart B—What Are the Rules for Filming, Photographing, or Videotaping on NARA Property?
§1280.40
§1280.42
§1280.44
§1280.46
§1280.48
§1280.50
§1280.52

Definitions.
When do the rules in this subpart apply?
May I film, photograph, or videotape on NARA property for commercial purposes?
What are the rules for filming, photographing, or videotaping on NARA property for personal use?
How do I apply to film, photograph, or videotape on NARA property for news purposes?
What will I be allowed to film, photograph, or videotape for news purposes?
What are the rules for filming, photographing, or videotaping on NARA property for news purposes?

Subpart C—What Are the Additional Rules for Using NARA Facilities in the Washington, DC, Area?
§1280.60
§1280.62
§1280.64
§1280.66
§1280.68

Where do I enter the National Archives Building in Washington, DC?
When are the exhibit areas in the National Archives Building open?
What entrance should I use to enter the National Archives at College Park?
May I use the National Archives Library?
May I use the cafeterias?

Subpart D—What Rules Apply to Use NARA Public Areas in the Washington, DC, Area?
GENERAL
§1280.70 When does NARA allow non-NARA groups to use the public areas of NARA property?
§1280.71 What are the general rules for using NARA property in the Washington, DC, area?
§1280.72 What additional rules apply for a NARA approved event?
NATIONAL ARCHIVES BUILDING, WASHINGTON, DC
§1280.74
§1280.76
§1280.78
§1280.80
§1280.82

What spaces in the National Archives Building are available for use by non-NARA groups and organizations?
When are the public areas available for private events in the National Archives Building?
Does NARA charge fees for the use of public areas in the National Archives Building?
How do I request to use NARA public areas in the National Archives Building?
How will NARA handle my request to use public areas in the National Archives Building?

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§1280.84 May I ask to use the Rotunda?
NATIONAL ARCHIVES AT COLLEGE PARK, MD
§1280.85 What space in the National Archives at College Park is available for use by non-NARA groups and
organizations?
§1280.86 When are the public areas available for events in the National Archives at College Park?
§1280.87 Does NARA charge fees for the use of public areas in the National Archives at College Park?
§1280.88 How do I request to use NARA public areas in the National Archives at College Park?
§1280.89 How will NARA handle my request to use public areas in the National Archives at College Park?
Subpart E—What Additional Rules Apply for Use of Facilities in Presidential Libraries?
§1280.90
§1280.92
§1280.94
§1280.96

What are the rules of conduct while visiting the Presidential libraries?
When are the Presidential library museums open to the public?
When do Presidential libraries allow other groups to use their public areas for events?
Supplemental rules.

Subpart F—What Additional Rules Apply for Use of Public Areas at Regional Records Services Facilities?
§1280.100 What are the rules of conduct at NARA regional records services facilities?
§1280.102 When do NARA regional records services facilities allow other groups to use their public areas for events?
AUTHORITY: 44 U.S.C. 2102 notes, 2104(a), 2112, 2903
SOURCE: 65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, unless otherwise noted.

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Subpart A—What Are the General Rules of Conduct on NARA Property?
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GENERAL INFORMATION ON USING NARA FACILITIES
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§1280.1 What is the purpose of this part?
(a) This part tells you what rules you must follow when you use property under the control of the Archivist of the
United States (see §1280.2 of this part).
(b) When you are using other NARA facilities, the General Services Administration (GSA) regulations, Conduct on
Federal Property, at 41 CFR part 102-74, Subpart C, apply to you. These facilities are the NARA regional records services
facilities, the Washington National Records Center in Suitland, MD, the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis,
MO, and the Office of the Federal Register in Washington, DC. The rules in §§1280.32(l), 1280.34 (a)(1) and (a)(2), and
1280.36 also apply to you. The rules in Subpart B of this part also apply to you if you wish to film, take photographs, or
make videotapes. The rules in Subpart F of this part also apply to you if you wish to use the NARA-assigned conference
rooms in those facilities.
(c) If you are using records in a NARA research room in a NARA facility, you must also follow the rules in 36 CFR part
1254. If you violate a rule or regulation in 36 CFR part 1254, you are subject to the types of corrective action set forth in
that part, including revocation of research privileges.
(d) If you violate a rule or regulation in this part you are subject to, among other types of corrective action, removal
and banning from the facility.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 68 FR 53882, Sept. 15, 2003, 73 FR 36793, June 30, 2008]

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§1280.2 What property is under the control of the Archivist of the United States?
The following property is under the control of the Archivist of the United States and is defined as “NARA property” in
this part 1280:
(a) The National Archives Building. Property under the control of the Archivist includes:
(1) The Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, entrance between 7th and 9th Streets including the area within the retaining walls
on either side of the entrance, inclusive of the statues, and the steps and ramps leading up to the entrance of the building;
(2) On the 7th Street, 9th Street, and Constitution Avenue, NW, sides of the building, all property between the National
Archives Building and the curb line of the street, including the sidewalks and other grounds, the steps leading up to the
Constitution Avenue entrance, the Constitution Avenue entrance, and the portico area between the steps and the
Constitution Avenue entrance.
(3) The National Park Service controls the areas on the Pennsylvania Avenue side of the National Archives Building
that are not under the control of the Archivist of the United States.
(b) The National Archives at College Park. Property under control of the Archivist includes approximately 37 acres
bounded:

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(1) On the west by Adelphi Road;
(2) On the north by the Potomac Electric Power Company right-of-way;
(3) On the east by Metzerott Road; and
(4) On the south by the University of Maryland.
(c) The Presidential Libraries. Property under control of the Archivist includes the Presidential Libraries and Museums
that are listed in 36 CFR 1253.3.
(d) The National Archives at Atlanta. The National Archives at Atlanta in Morrow, Georgia, as specified in 36 CFR
1253.7(d).
(e) The Federal Records Centers. The Federal Records Centers in Ellenwood, Georgia, and Riverside, California, as
specified in 36 CFR 1253.6 (d) and (l), respectively.
(f) Additional Facilities. As other properties come under the control of the Archivist of the United States, they will be
listed in these regulations as soon as practicable.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 71 FR 76166, Dec. 20, 2006; 72 FR 4432, Jan. 31, 2007; 75 FR 19557, Apr. 15, 2010]

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§1280.4 What items are subject to inspection by NARA?
NARA may, at its discretion, inspect the personal property in the possession of any NARA contractor, employee,
student intern, visitor, volunteer, or other person arriving on, working at, visiting, or departing from NARA property.
[71 FR 76167, Dec. 20, 2006]

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§1280.6 Can children under the age of 14 use NARA facilities?
Children under the age of 14 will be admitted to NARA facilities only if they are accompanied by an adult who will
supervise them at all times while on NARA property. The director of a NARA facility may authorize a lower age limit for
admission of unaccompanied children to meet special circumstances (e.g., students who have been given permission to
conduct research without adult supervision).
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000. Redesignated at 71 FR 76167, Dec. 20, 2006]

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§1280.8 May I bring a seeing-eye dog or other assistance animal?
Yes, persons with disabilities may bring guide dogs or other animals used for guidance and assistance onto NARA
property. You may not bring any other animals into a NARA facility except for official purposes.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000. Redesignated at 71 FR 76167, Dec. 20, 2006]

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§1280.10 Are there special rules for driving on NARA property?
(a) You must obey speed limits, posted signs, and other traffic laws, and park only in designated spaces.
(b) NARA will tow, at the owner's expense, any vehicle that is parked illegally. Except in emergencies, you may not
park in spaces reserved for holders of NARA parking permits. If an emergency forces you to leave your vehicle in an illegal
area, you must notify the security guards at that NARA facility as soon as possible. We will not tow your illegally parked
car if you have notified a security guard of an emergency unless it is creating a hazard or blocking an entrance or an exit.
(c) We may deny any vehicle access to NARA property for public safety or security reasons.
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§1280.12 Is parking available?
(a) The National Archives Building. There is no parking available for researchers or visitors to the National Archives
Building. However, this building is easily accessible by bus or subway and there are several commercial parking lots
located near the building.
(b) The National Archives at College Park. The National Archives at College Park has limited public parking space.
The garage is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis during the hours the research rooms are open. There is
public bus service to this building. Individuals and groups visiting the National Archives at College Park are encouraged to
use public transportation or car pool to get to the building as the parking lot is often full during our busiest hours.
(c) Records services facilities. Most records services facilities have onsite parking available for researchers. Parking
at these facilities and at the Washington National Records Center is governed by GSA regulations, Management of
Buildings and Grounds, found at 41 CFR part 101-20. The National Archives at Philadelphia on Market Street (in
Philadelphia) and the National Archives at New York City do not have onsite parking. However, there is ample parking in
commercial parking garages near these facilities.

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(d) Presidential Libraries. All of the Presidential Libraries have onsite parking for researchers and museum visitors.
Some of the spaces are reserved for staff and for security reasons.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 75 FR 19558, Apr. 15, 2010]

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§1280.14 May I use the shuttle bus to travel to the National Archives at College Park or to the National Archives
Building in Washington, DC?
The NARA shuttle, which travels concurrently each hour between the National Archives Building and the National
Archives at College Park, is intended for NARA employees' use for official purposes. Other Government employees on
official business or researchers may also use the shuttle if space is available. The shuttle operates Monday through
Friday, excluding Federal holidays, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000; 65 FR 35840, June 6, 2000]

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§1280.16 Are there additional rules posted?
Yes, there are additional rules posted on NARA property. You must, at all times while on NARA property, comply with
official NARA signs and with the directions of the guards and NARA staff.
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PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
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§1280.18 May I bring guns or other weapons onto NARA property?
No, you may not bring firearms or other dangerous or deadly weapons either openly or concealed onto NARA
property except for official business. You also may not bring explosives, or items intended to be used to fabricate an
explosive or incendiary device, onto NARA property. State-issued concealed-carry permits are not valid on NARA property.
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§1280.20 What is your policy on illegal drugs and alcohol?
You may not use or be in possession of illegal drugs on NARA property. You also may not enter NARA property while
under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol. Using alcoholic beverages on NARA property is prohibited except for
occasions when the Archivist of the United States or his/her designee has granted an exemption in writing.
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§1280.22 Is gambling allowed on NARA property?
(a) No, you may not participate in any type of gambling while on NARA property. This includes:
(1) Participating in games for money or other personal property;
(2) Operating gambling devices;
(3) Conducting a lottery or pool; or
(4) Selling or purchasing numbers tickets.
(b) This rule does not apply to licensed blind operators of vending facilities who are selling chances for any lottery set
forth in a State law and conducted by an agency of a State as authorized by section 2(a)(5) of the Randolph-Sheppard Act
(20 U.S.C. 107, et seq.)
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§1280.24 Is smoking allowed on NARA property?
Smoking is not allowed inside any NARA facility.
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§1280.26 May I pass out fliers on NARA property?
No, you may not distribute or post handbills, fliers, pamphlets or other materials on bulletin boards or elsewhere on
NARA property, except in those spaces designated by NARA as public forums. This prohibition does not apply to displays
or notices distributed as part of authorized Government activities or bulletin boards used by employees to post personal
notices.
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§1280.28 Where can I eat and drink on NARA property?
You may only eat and drink in designated areas in NARA facilities. Eating and drinking is prohibited in the research,

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records storage, and museum areas unless specifically authorized by the Archivist or designee.
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§1280.30 Are soliciting, vending, and debt collection allowed on NARA property?
(a) No, on NARA property you may not:
(1) Solicit for personal, charitable, or commercial causes;
(2) Sell any products;
(3) Display or distribute commercial advertising; or
(4) Collect private debts.
(b) If you are a NARA employee or contractor, you may participate in national or local drives for funds for welfare,
health or other purposes that are authorized by the Office of Personnel Management and/or approved by NARA (e.g. the
Combined Federal Campaign). Also, nothing in this section prohibits employees from activities permitted under the
Standards of Ethical Conduct and Office of Government Ethics rules.
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§1280.32 What other behavior is not permitted?
We reserve the right to remove anyone from NARA property who is:
(a) Stealing NARA property;
(b) Willfully damaging or destroying NARA property;
(c) Creating any hazard to persons or things;
(d) Throwing anything from or at a NARA building;
(e) Improperly disposing of rubbish.
(f) Acting in a disorderly fashion;
(g) Acting in a manner that creates a loud or unusual noise or a nuisance;
(h) Acting in a manner that unreasonably obstructs the usual use of NARA facilities:
(i) Acting in a manner that otherwise impedes or disrupts the performance of official duties by Government and
contract employees;
(j) Acting in a manner that prevents the general public from obtaining NARA-provided services in a timely manner; or
(k) Loitering.
(l) Threatening directly (e.g., in-person communications or physical gestures) or indirectly (e.g., via regular mail,
electronic mail, or phone) any NARA employee, visitor, volunteer, contractor, other building occupants, or property.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 68 FR 53882, Sept. 15, 2003]

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§1280.34 What are the types of corrective action NARA imposes for prohibited behavior?
(a) Individuals who violate the provisions of this part are subject to:
(1) Removal from the premises (removal for up to seven calendar days) and possible law enforcement notification;
(2) Banning from property owned or operated by NARA;
(3) Arrest for trespass; and
(4) Any additional types of corrective action prescribed by law.
(b) The regional administrator of the facility (or the director if so designated) has the authority to have the individual
immediately removed and denied further access to the premises for up to seven calendar days. During this removal
period, the Assistant Archivist for Administration renders a decision on whether the individual should be banned from
specific or all NARA facilities permanently or temporarily (in up to one-year increments). Long-term banning under this part
includes automatic revocation of research privileges, notwithstanding the time periods set forth in 36 CFR 1254.48 .
Research privileges remain revoked until the ban is lifted, at which time an application for new privileges may be
submitted.
(c) Upon written notification by the Assistant Archivist for Administration, individuals may be banned from all NARA
facilities. All NARA facilities will be notified of the banning of individuals.
[68 FR 53882, Sept. 15, 2003, as amended at 73 FR 36793, June 30, 2008]

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§1280.36 May I file an appeal if I am banned from NARA facilities?
Yes, within 30 calendar days of receiving such notification, an individual may appeal the decision in writing. In the
request, the individual must state the reasons for the appeal and mail it to the Deputy Archivist of the United States for
reconsideration (address: National Archives and Records Administration (ND), 8601 Adelphi Road, College Park, MD
20740-6001). The Deputy Archivist has 30 calendar days from receipt of an appeal to make a decision to rescind, modify,
or uphold the ban. If the ban is upheld, further requests by the affected individual will not be acted upon if received prior to
the expiration of a period of one year from the date of the last request for reconsideration. After one year has passed, a
further request for reconsideration will be considered, and the Deputy Archivist will decide, within 30 calendar days of
receiving the request, whether the ban remains in place or is rescinded. Notice of the decision will be provided in writing to
the affected individual.
[68 FR 53882, Sept. 15, 2003]

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Subpart B—What Are the Rules for Filming, Photographing, or Videotaping on NARA
Property?
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§1280.40 Definitions.
(a) Filming, photographing, or videotaping for commercial purposes. Any filming, photographing, or videotaping to
promote commercial enterprises or commodities.
(b) News filming, photographing, or videotaping. Any filming, photographing, or videotaping done by a commercial or
non-profit news organization that is intended for use in a television or radio news broadcast, newspaper, or periodical.
(c) Personal use filming, photographing, or videotaping. Any filming, photographing, or videotaping intended solely for
personal use that will not be commercially distributed.
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§1280.42 When do the rules in this subpart apply?
(a) These rules apply to anyone who is filming, photographing, or videotaping inside any NARA-run facility and while
on NARA property.
(b) Filming, photographing, and videotaping on the grounds of any NARA regional records services facility, or on the
grounds surrounding the Washington National Records Center are governed by GSA regulations, Management of
Buildings and Grounds, found at 41 CFR part 101-20, and must be approved by a GSA official.
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§1280.44 May I film, photograph, or videotape on NARA property for commercial purposes?
No, filming, photographing, and videotaping on NARA property for commercial purposes is prohibited.
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§1280.46 What are the rules for filming, photographing, or videotaping on NARA property for personal use?
(a) You may film, photograph, or videotape outside a NARA facility so long as you do not impede vehicular or
pedestrian traffic.
(b) You may film, photograph, or videotape inside a NARA facility during regular business hours in public areas,
including research rooms and exhibition areas, under the following conditions:
(1) You may not use a flash or other supplemental lighting; and
(2) You may not use a tripod or similar equipment.
(c) You may not film, photograph, or videotape in any of the exhibit areas of the National Archives Building in
Washington, DC, including the Rotunda where the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights are
displayed.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 73 FR 36793, June 30, 2008; 75 FR 3863, Jan. 25, 2010]

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§1280.48 How do I apply to film, photograph, or videotape on NARA property for news purposes?
(a) If you wish to film, photograph, or videotape for news purposes at the National Archives Building (as delineated in
§1280.2(a)), the National Archives at College Park, or the Washington National Records Center, you must request
permission from the NARA Public Affairs Officer, 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20408-0001. See also
§1280.42(b) for additional permissions relating to the Washington National Records Center.
(b) If you wish to film, photograph, or videotape for news purposes at a Presidential library or at a regional records

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services facility, you must contact the director of the library (see 36 CFR 1253.3 for contact information) or regional
records services facility (see 36 CFR 1253.6 for contact information) to request permission.
(c) Your request for permission to film, photograph, or videotape for news purposes must contain the following
information:
(1) The name of the organization you are working for;
(2) Areas you wish to film, photograph, or videotape;
(3) Documents, if any, you wish to film;
(4) The purpose of the project you are working on;
(5) What you intend to do with the film, photograph, or videotape; and
(6) How long you will need to complete your work on NARA property.
(d) You must request permission at least one week in advance of your desired filming date. If you make a request
within a shorter time period, we may not be able to accommodate your request.
(e) OMB control number 3095-0040 has been assigned to the information collection contained in this section.
(f) This section does not apply to you if you have permission to use your own microfilming equipment to film archival
records and donated historical materials under the provisions of 36 CFR 1254.90 through 1254.110. You must follow the
procedures in 36 CFR part 1254 for permission to film archival records and donated materials for research purposes or for
microfilm publications.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 36793, June 30, 2008]

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§1280.50 What will I be allowed to film, photograph, or videotape for news purposes?
(a) NARA will permit you to film, photograph, or videotape sections of the interior or exterior of any NARA facility only
for stories about:
(1) NARA programs;
(2) NARA exhibits;
(3) NARA holdings;
(4) NARA services;
(5) A former President;
(6) A researcher who has made or is making use of NARA holdings (provided that the researcher also approves your
request); or
(7) Any other NARA-related activity approved by the appropriate NARA representative.
(b) NARA reserves the right to reject any request that does not meet the criteria set forth in 36 CFR 1280.50(a) and
(c) or because of scheduling or staffing constraints.
(c) We will not grant you permission to film, photograph, or videotape if you intend to use the film, photographs, or
videotape for commercial, partisan political, sectarian, or similar activities.
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§1280.52 What are the rules for filming, photographing, or videotaping on NARA property for news purposes?
The following conditions and restrictions apply to anyone that has been granted permission to film, photograph, or
videotape for news purposes under Subpart B:
(a) NARA may limit or prohibit use of artificial light in connection with the filming, photographing, or videotaping of
documents for news purposes. You may not use any supplemental lighting devices while filming, photographing, or
videotaping inside a NARA facility in the Washington, DC, area without the prior permission of the NARA Public Affairs
Officer. If the Public Affairs Officer approves your use of artificial lighting in the Rotunda, NARA will use facsimiles in place
of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. If NARA approves your use of high intensity
lighting, NARA will cover or replace with facsimiles all other exhibited documents that fall within the boundaries of such
illumination. You may not use any supplemental lighting devices at the Presidential Libraries and the regional records
services facilities without permission from a NARA representative at that facility.
(b) On a case-by-case basis, the Public Affairs Officer or other appropriate NARA representative may grant you
permission to film, photograph, or videotape in stack areas containing unclassified records.
(c) While filming, photographing, or videotaping, you are liable for injuries to people or property that result from your
activities on NARA property.
(d) At all times while on NARA property, you must conduct your activities in accordance with all applicable NARA

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regulations contained in this part.
(e) Your filming, photographing, or videotaping activity may not impede people who are entering or exiting any NARA
facility unless otherwise authorized by the facility's director, or by the NARA Public Affairs Officer for Washington, DC, area
facilities.
(f) You must be accompanied by a NARA staff member when filming, photographing, or videotaping the interior of any
NARA facility.
(g) NARA will approve your request to do press interviews of NARA personnel on NARA property only when such
employees are being interviewed in connection with official business. Interviews with NARA staff and researchers may
take place only in areas designated by the NARA Public Affairs Officer for Washington, DC, area facilities, or by the
appropriate NARA representative at other NARA facilities.
(h) You may film and photograph documents only in those areas which the NARA Public Affairs Staff designates in the
National Archives Building, the National Archives at College Park, or the Washington National Records Center or in those
areas designated as appropriate by the staff liaison at other NARA facilities.
(i) We will limit your film and photography sessions to two hours.
(j) You may not state or imply that NARA approves of or will sponsor:
(1) Your activities or views; or
(2) The uses to which you put images depicting any NARA facility.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 73 FR 36794, June 30, 2008]

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Subpart C—What Are the Additional Rules for Using NARA Facilities in the Washington, DC,
Area?
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§1280.60 Where do I enter the National Archives Building in Washington, DC?
(a) To conduct research or official business, you must enter the Pennsylvania Avenue entrance of the National
Archives Building.
(b) To visit the exhibit areas of the National Archives Building, including the National Archives Experience and
Rotunda, you must enter through the Constitution Avenue entrance.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 71 FR 42060, July 25, 2006]

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§1280.62 When are the exhibit areas in the National Archives Building open?
(a) The exhibit areas' hours of operation are posted at http://www.archives.gov. Last admission to the exhibit areas of
the building will be no later than 30 minutes before the stated closing hour. The Archivist of the United States reserves the
authority to close the exhibit areas to the public at any time for special events or other purposes. The building is closed on
Thanksgiving and December 25.
[75 FR 71547, Nov. 24, 2010]

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§1280.64 What entrance should I use to enter the National Archives at College Park?
You may enter the National Archives at College Park facility only through the main entrance on Adelphi Road. This
entrance will be open to visitors during normal business hours described in 36 CFR 1253.2. Commercial deliveries must
be made at the loading dock which is accessible only from Metzerott Road.
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§1280.66 May I use the National Archives Library?
The National Archives Library facilities in the National Archives Building and in the National Archives at College Park
are operated to meet the needs of researchers and NARA staff members. If you are not conducting research in archival
materials at NARA, NARA Library staff will refer you to public libraries and other possible sources for such published
materials.
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§1280.68 May I use the cafeterias?
Yes, the Charters Café in the National Archives Building is normally open to the public Monday through Friday, 10
a.m. to 4 p.m. and the cafeteria at the National Archives at College Park is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
[73 FR 36794, June 30, 2008]

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Subpart D—What Rules Apply to Use NARA Public Areas in the Washington, DC, Area?
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GENERAL
SOURCE: 73 FR 36794, June 30, 2008, unless otherwise noted.

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§1280.70 When does NARA allow non-NARA groups to use the public areas of NARA property?
(a) The primary use of NARA property in the Washington, DC, area (the National Archives Building and the National
Archives at College Park), including those areas open to the public, is the conduct of official NARA business, including
public programs and other activities conducted in conjunction with government and non-government organizations and the
Foundation for the National Archives (“Foundation”). In conducting official business, NARA and its partners use all of the
public areas of the Washington, DC, area facilities. There are no public areas in the Washington National Records Center
in Suitland, MD.
(b) NARA may permit, under the conditions described in this subpart, the occasional use of certain public areas by
other Federal agencies, quasi-Federal agencies, and state, local, and tribal government organizations for official activities.
NARA also permits the occasional, non-official use of its public areas by organizations when the activity relates to or
furthers NARA's archival, records, or other programs.
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§1280.71 What are the general rules for using NARA property in the Washington, DC, area?
In addition to the rules listed in Subparts A, B, and C of this part, you must adhere to the following rules when using
NARA public spaces:
(a) All use must relate to or further the archival, records, or other activities of NARA. Examples of use that meet this
standard include programs that promote research in or the dissemination and use of NARA holdings, including educational
programs and materials, the preservation of NARA holdings or the historical records and documentary materials of other
institutions, and the use and enjoyment of NARA exhibits.
(b) All use must be consistent with the public perception of NARA as an archival and research institution.
(c) When NARA cohosts an activity with the Foundation or other organizations, NARA must be identified as the cohost
in all materials and publicity relating to the activity.
(d) When NARA has authorized your organization to use NARA property, you may not characterize your use of NARA
property as an endorsement by NARA of your organization or its activities, or otherwise suggest an official relationship
between NARA and your organization.
(e) You are not allowed to charge an admission fee or make any indirect assessment for admission, and you may not
otherwise collect money at the event.
(f) You may not use NARA property or permission to use that property to advertise, promote, or sell commercial
enterprises, products, or services, or for partisan political, sectarian, or similar purposes.
(g) You may not use NARA property if you or your organization or group engages in discriminatory practices
proscribed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended.
(h) You must not misrepresent your identity to the public nor conduct any activities in a misleading or fraudulent
manner.
(i) You must ensure that no Government property is destroyed, displaced, or damaged during your use of NARA
public areas. You must take prompt action to replace, return, restore, repair or repay NARA for any damage caused to
Government property during the use of NARA facilities.
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§1280.72 What additional rules apply for a NARA approved event?
(a) Approved applicants must provide support people as needed to register guests, distribute approved literature,
name tags, and other material.
(b) We must approve in advance any item that you plan to distribute or display during your use of NARA property, or
any notice or advertisement that refers, directly or indirectly, to NARA, the Foundation for the National Archives, or the
National Archives Trust Fund, or incorporates any of the seals described in 36 CFR 1200.2.
(c) We must approve in advance any vendor or caterer who will work in NARA facilities. You must comply with all
NARA requirements for the use of food and drink at your event.
(d) No food or drink may be present or consumed in areas where original records or historical materials are displayed.
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NATIONAL ARCHIVES BUILDING, WASHINGTON, DC
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§1280.74 What spaces in the National Archives Building are available for use by non-NARA groups and
organizations?
You may ask to use the following areas in the National Archives Building, Washington, DC:
Area
Rotunda Galleries
William G. McGowan Theater
Archivist's Reception Room
Presidential Conference Rooms

Capacity
250 persons.
290 persons.
125 persons.
20 to 70 persons.

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§1280.76 When are the public areas available for private events in the National Archives Building?
Most public areas are available for set-up and use on weekdays from 6 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. during the fall and winter
seasons (day after Labor Day through March 14). The areas are available for set-up and use from 7:30 p.m. until 10:30
p.m. in the spring season (March 15 through Labor Day). The areas are not available during weekends or on Federal
holidays. A NARA staff member must be present at all times when non-NARA groups use NARA spaces.
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§1280.78 Does NARA charge fees for the use of public areas in the National Archives Building?
(a) NARA is authorized to charge fees for the occasional, non-official use of its public areas, as well as for services
related to such use, including additional cleaning, security, and other staff services. NARA will either exercise this authority
directly, or, for activities co-sponsored with the Foundation for the National Archives, as part of your group's arrangements
with the Foundation.
(b) We will inform organizations interested in using public spaces in the National Archives Building in advance and in
writing of the total estimated cost associated with using the public area of interest. Fees NARA charges are paid to the
National Archives Trust Fund.
(c) Federal and quasi-Federal agencies, State, local, and tribal governmental institutions using public space for official
government functions pay fees to the National Archives Trust Fund only for the costs for room rental, administrative fees,
additional cleaning, security, and other staff services NARA provides.
[73 FR 36794, June 30, 2008, as amended at 78 FR 41305, July 10, 2013]

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§1280.80 How do I request to use NARA public areas in the National Archives Building?
(a) Direct your request to use space to Special Events (Partnerships Division), National Archives and Records
Administration, 700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20408; or request by email to [email protected].
(b) You must submit requests, signed by an authorized official of your organization, to use NARA public areas at least
30 calendar days before the proposed event is to occur.
(c) OMB control number 3095-0043 has been assigned to the information collection contained in this section.
[73 FR 36794, June 30, 2008, as amended at 78 FR 41305, July 10, 2013]

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§1280.82 How will NARA handle my request to use public areas in the National Archives Building?
(a) When you ask to use property in the National Archives Building, we review your request to:
(1) Ensure that it meets all of the provisions in this subpart;
(2) Determine if the public area you have requested is available on the date and time you have requested;
(3) Evaluate whether your proposed use is appropriate for the requested space; and
(4) Determine the costs of the event.
(b) When we have completed this review, we will notify you of the decision. We may ask for additional information
before deciding whether or not to approve your event.
(c) NARA reserves the right to review, reject, or require changes in any material, activity, or caterer you intend to use
for the event.
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§1280.84 May I ask to use the Rotunda?
The Rotunda is primarily used for the public exhibition of the Charters of Freedom and other documents from NARA's

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holdings. NARA also uses the Rotunda for activities that further its Strategic Plan. Therefore, the use of the Rotunda for
private events is not permitted. NARA may, upon application, permit other Federal agencies, quasi-Federal agencies, and
State, local, and tribal governments to use the Rotunda for official functions, with NARA as a co-sponsor. Governmental
groups that use the Rotunda for official functions must reimburse NARA for the cost of additional cleaning, security, and
other staff services.
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NATIONAL ARCHIVES AT COLLEGE PARK, MD
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§1280.85 What space in the National Archives at College Park is available for use by non-NARA groups and
organizations?
You may ask to use the following areas:
Area
Auditorium
Lecture Rooms

Capacity
300.
30 to 70 persons (or up to 300 with all dividers removed).

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§1280.86 When are the public areas available for events in the National Archives at College Park?
Most areas are available for set-up and use from 8 a.m. until 9:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. until
4:30 p.m. on Saturday. A NARA staff member must be present at all times when the public area is in use. If the space and
staff are available, we may approve requests for events held before or after these hours and on Sunday.
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§1280.87 Does NARA charge fees for the use of public areas in the National Archives at College Park?
NARA may charge a fee under 44 U.S.C. 2903(b) for the use of public areas in the National Archives at College Park.
We inform organizations in advance and in writing of the total estimated cost of using the public areas. Federal and quasiFederal agencies, State, local, and tribal governmental institutions using public space for official government functions pay
fees to the National Archives Trust Fund only for the costs for room rental, administrative fees, additional cleaning,
security, and other staff services NARA provides.
[78 FR 41305, July 10, 2013]

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§1280.88 How do I request to use NARA public areas in the National Archives at College Park?
(a) Direct your request to use space to Special Events (Partnerships Division), National Archives and Records
Administration, 700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20408; or request by email to [email protected].
(b) You must submit requests for use of NARA public areas at least 30 calendar days before the proposed event is to
occur.
(c) OMB control number 3095-0043 has been assigned to the information collection contained in this section.
[73 FR 36794, June 30, 2008, as amended at 78 FR 41305, July 10, 2013]

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§1280.89 How will NARA handle my request to use public areas in the National Archives at College Park?
(a) When you ask to use public areas at the National Archives at College Park, we will review your request to:
(1) Ensure that it meets all of the provisions in this subpart;
(2) Determine if the room you have requested is available on the date and time you have requested; and
(3) Determine the cost of the event.
(b) When we have completed this review, we will notify you of the decision. We may ask for additional information
before deciding whether or not to approve your event.
(c) NARA reserves the right to review, reject, or require changes in any material, activity, or caterer you intend to use
for the event.
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Subpart E—What Additional Rules Apply for Use of Facilities in Presidential Libraries?
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§1280.90 What are the rules of conduct while visiting the Presidential libraries?
In addition to the rules in Subpart A, when visiting the museums of the Presidential Libraries, you may be required to

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check all of your parcels and luggage in areas designated by Library staff.
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§1280.92 When are the Presidential library museums open to the public?
(a) The Presidential library museums are open every day except Thanksgiving, December 25, and January 1 (with the
exception of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library which is only closed December 25). For more specific information about
museum hours, please contact the libraries directly or visit the NARA Web site at http://www.archives.gov. Hours for the
Presidential libraries' research rooms are also posted at http://www.archives.gov.
(b) See 36 CFR 1253.3 for the operating hours of the research rooms of the Presidential Libraries.
[65 FR 34978, June 1, 2000, as amended at 75 FR 71547, Nov. 24, 2010]

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§1280.94 When do Presidential libraries allow other groups to use their public areas for events?
(a) Although Presidential Library buildings and grounds are intended primarily for the libraries' use in carrying out their
programs, you may request the use of Presidential Library facilities when the proposed activity is:
(1) Sponsored, cosponsored, or authorized by the library;
(2) Conducted to further the library's interests; and
(3) Scheduled so as not to interfere with the normal operation of the library.
(b) Your event at the library must be for the benefit of or in connection with the mission and programs of the library
and must be consistent with the public perception of the library as a research and cultural institution.
(c) To request the use of a library area, you must apply in writing to the library director (see 36 CFR 1253.3 for the
address) and complete NA Form 16011, Application for Use of Space in Presidential Libraries. OMB control number
3095-0024 has been assigned to the information collection contained in this section.
(d) You may not use library facilities for any activities that involve:
(1) Profit making;
(2) Commercial advertising and sales;
(3) Partisan political activities;
(4) Sectarian activities, or other similar activities; or
(5) Any use inconsistent with those authorized in this section.
(e) You may not charge admission fees, indirect assessment, or take any other kind of monetary collection at the
event. NARA will charge normal admission fees to the museum if that area is used for the event.
(f) You will be assessed additional charges by the library director to reimburse the Government for expenses incurred
as a result of your use of the library facility.
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§1280.96 Supplemental rules.
Library directors may establish appropriate supplemental rules governing use of Presidential libraries and adjacent
buildings and areas under NARA control.
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Subpart F—What Additional Rules Apply for Use of Public Areas at Regional Records
Services Facilities?
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§1280.100 What are the rules of conduct at NARA regional records services facilities?
While at any NARA regional records services facility, you are subject to all of the following:
(a) The GSA regulations, Conduct on Federal Property (41 CFR Part 102-74, Subpart C);
(b) The rules in Subparts B and F of this part;
(c) Section 1280.1(b through d);
(d) Section 1280.32(l);
(e) Section 1280.34 (a)(1) and (a)(2); and
(f) Section 1280.36.

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[68 FR 53883, Sept. 15, 2003]

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§1280.102 When do NARA regional records services facilities allow other groups to use their public areas for
events?
(a) Although NARA regional records services facility auditoriums and other public spaces in the facility buildings and
the facility grounds are intended primarily for the use of the NARA regional records services facility in carrying out its
programs, you may request to use one of these areas for lectures, seminars, meetings, and similar activities when these
activities are:
(1) Sponsored, cosponsored, or authorized by the NARA regional records services facility;
(2) To further NARA's interests; and
(3) Scheduled so as not to interfere with the normal operation of the NARA regional records services facility.
(b) Your event at the NARA regional records services facility must be for the benefit of or in connection with the
mission and programs of NARA.
(c) You must ask permission to use a public area at a NARA regional records services facility from the director of that
facility (see 36 CFR 1253.6 for a list of addresses).
(d) NARA regional records services facilities will not allow use of any auditoriums or other public spaces for any
activities that involve:
(1) Profit making;
(2) Commercial advertising and sales;
(3) Partisan political activities;
(4) Sectarian activities, or other similar activities; or
(5) Any use inconsistent with those authorized in this section.
(e) You may not charge admission fees, indirect assessment, or take any other kind of monetary collection at the
event.
(f) You will be assessed a charge by the facility director to reimburse the Government for expenses incurred as a
result of the your use of the facility.
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