It is recommended that visitors make an appointment so the material they wish to view is ready when they arrive. Many documents are available only as originals and, therefore, must be photocopied. Patrons are allowed 100 free photocopies. Thereafter, they are charged 15 per page. When necessary, an invoice stating how many copies were made, the cost of the order, and where to send a check will be issued to the patron.
Documents also are available on microfilm.
The RIC staff helps patrons locate needed documents and operate the microfilm machines. The billing fee for printing microfilm documents is the same as for photocopying documents. Patrons who are outside of the Washington, DC, metropolitan area can request documents by phone, fax, or e-mail. If an invoice is necessary, the RIC staff will mail one with the order. The hotline also takes requests and makes referrals for obtaining OSW publications.