|
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts > Collections > Circulating Collections Reserve Film and Video Collection: Telephone: Location: Hours: Catalog: The LEO catalog indicates the location of all Reserve Film and Video Collection material as - Performing Arts Library - 2nd floor Reserve Film and Video Collection. Email:
About the Collection: The Reserve Film and Video Collection includes more than 6,000 16mm films, 5,000 VHS videocassettes, and 1,000 DVDs. The New York Public Library began acquiring films in 1953, and established a film collection at the Donnell Library in 1958. The library began adding videos to the collection in the 1970s. Since the collections inception, its primary focus has been on independently produced works. Careful selection practices have resulted in a collection that is impressive for its scope and depth and its overall high quality. The collection's holdings provide a very broad spectrum of both subject matter and filmmaking styles and genres. It is unique among American public libraries, and is comparable to archives held within major American museums and universities. Particular strengths of the collection are its political, social and cultural documentaries; experimental films; video art; animation; short fictional works; and films and videos created by and for children and young adults. The Reserve Film and Video Collection also offers an impressive array of over 800 feature films in all formats, including works from the silent era; independently produced features; a broad representation of world cinema; and Hollywood productions from American classics to recent releases. Use of Collection: Individuals may also view Reserve Film and Video Collection material on site in the 2nd floor Reserve Collection study center. Users must complete a one-time registration form (.pdf) before viewing or borrowing Reserve Film and Video Collection material. Access to the collection is available only through advance reservation. Reservations to view or borrow material must be made at least two weeks in advance. Reservations may be made in person or by telephone. Film/Video Study Guides: Books: The book collections focus on the historical development and progression of both film and video; film/video direction and production; screenplays; film/video genres; national cinemas; biographies; and indexes to film literature. Some reference books must be asked for at the Information Desk. All reference books are non-circulating, and must be consulted on site. You will need a valid NYPL library card to use these items. Periodicals and Newsletters: |