In order to promote efficiency in the perusal of official documents and records, there is a title catalog with the title of each volume, and a detailed subject index that indicates the contents of each official document and records in a volume. In addition to these, there are published catalogs and indices of the official documents and materials. These publications are widely distributed to major archives and libraries nationwide. Opening to the public Official documents and records are in principle open to the public after the passage of more than 30 years and when their cataloging has been completed. Reading is permitted to person over 20 years of age whose purpose is scientific study or research.
Applicants complete the prescribed procedures at the reception desk and can then peruse materials.
The National Archives responds to various inquiries from readers and others, as to whether or not certain materials are held and the contents of materials. In exhibits with such social objectives as scientific study and social education, materials are loaned subject to conditions. For use in television, publications, etc., applications are accepted only for photographic reproductions.