Walt Disney Animation Research Library

The Walt Disney Animation Research Library (ARL) is a facility that conserves and preserves the artistic heritage of Walt Disney Animation Studios and serves as a resource to The Walt Disney Company for creative inspiration, research, brand enhancement, and product development. It is located in a nondescript building near Disney's Los Angeles studios.
==History==
The ARL traces its origins to Walt Disney's personal collection of art created by his animators for films and shorts. Walt Disney wanted to save the art for future reference and inspiration, and called it a "morgue". The collection grew over time as more films were produced, and eventually moved to a separate facility with temperature-controlled vaults and security measures. In 1989, the ARL was officially established as a department within Walt Disney Feature Animation, with the mission of preserving and cataloging the artwork. In 2006, the ARL became part of The Walt Disney Studios, and in 2014, it was renamed the Walt Disney Animation Research Library.
==Collection==
The ARL's collection consists of about 65 million pieces of original artwork in 11 vaults. The collection includes drawings, concept art, cels, backgrounds, storyboards, maquettes, puppets, and other materials from films dating back to Oswald the Lucky Rabbit and up to the latest releases such as Moana. The collection also contains material associated with films and shorts made while Walt was alive, up to The Jungle Book, which is stored in a special room called "Walt's Vault".
The artwork is stored in acid-free boxes and folders and kept in optimal environmental conditions to prevent deterioration. The artwork is also digitized and cataloged in a database that allows easy access and search. The ARL has a team of archivists, librarians, conservators, photographers, and technicians who manage and care for the collection.
==Services==
The ARL provides various services to The Walt Disney Company and its subsidiaries, such as:
* Digitizing and cataloging the artwork for preservation and access.
* Lending artwork for exhibitions, publications, promotions, and other purposes.
* Providing research and consultation to filmmakers, artists, historians, and others.
* Creating reproductions and merchandise based on the artwork.
* Hosting tours and events for guests and employees.
Category:The Walt Disney Company