Research Viewing Service

If you want to view a title which is not generally available on video or any other format, we may still be able to help via our Research Viewing Service or through our Donor Access department.

The research viewing service is available to non-commercial researchers and to students wishing to view material relating to their research, and allows access to all films and videos designated as 'viewing copies' held by the National Archive.

Viewings take place by appointment, between 10.30am and 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, using Steenbeck table viewers for film and VCRs with headphones for video, both of which are controlled by the user. In certain circumstances, it may also be possible to arrange research viewings at some of the UK's regional film archives, as well as at the bfi's Stephen Street office.

Two to three weeks' notice should be allowed, and users should provide full details of title, year, transmission date, etc, as appropriate. (If there is any doubt about this, you can see our enquiries page.)

Viewing fees are charged at the following rates:

• £12.50 per hour + VAT for film
• £10.00 per hour + VAT for videotape

Based on the running time of the films/TV programmes booked.

A 50% discount applies to full-time UK students, OAPs and unwaged.

Please note that for large groups, viewing theatres are available.

The Research Viewing Service is part of the bfi National Library.

bfi Research Viewing Service

21 Stephen Street

London, W1T 1LN

Tel: 020 7957 4726

Fax: 020 7436 2338

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