Using The Archives

The MBC is closed to the public at this time as it prepares for its transition into its new home at State and Kinzie in downtown Chicago.

On January 27, 2009, the MBC re-activated its online digital catalog allowing users to watch and listen to the 8,500 digital assets that have been digitized since 2006. Click here to search the Archives catalog

The Archives Department is available to answer reference inquiries via phone at 312-245-8200 or
by e-mail.

Copies of Archival Material

The vast majority of the MBC archival collection is protected by original copyrights. The MBC will not copy any material without permission from the copyright holder.Please read the exceptions.

To obtain a copy of a program in our Archives, please note the following procedure:

1. Patrons must obtain written permission from the copyright holder.
   
   To determine who owns copyright:
   • Contact the Library of Congress by phone at 202-707-5000.
   • Contact the United States Copyright Office by phone at 202-707-5959.

2. If permission is granted, the copyright holder must fax the authorization directly to the MBC at 312-245-8207 along with the completed Duplication Request Form. Forms without permission will not be processed.

3. Payment must be received by the MBC before duplication requests are fulfilled. View the duplication fees. Download the Duplication Request Form.

Note: Once a completed Duplication Form, appropriate permission, and payment are received, it may take up to 10 business days to ship the copied program.

Duplication Fees for Archival Material

• Major credit cards are accepted.
• Prices do not include shipping and taxes. Illinois residents must pay 10.25% sales tax.
• Shipping cost via UPS Ground is $7.50, or Chicago residents may arrange for pick up.