Audio/Visual Archives

Video/Film Collection

The Visual Library is the archive of historical film and video materials for use in the news, documentaries and other productions related to the aims of the United Nations.  

Its holdings include:

• The League of Nations and the restored film coverage of the work of UNRRA - The United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration in Europe (1945-1947);
• the Security Council and General Assembly meetings and special events, selected international conferences and press conference;
• raw footage of worldwide UN field activities covering development issues and peace-keeping missions, among other topics;
• various thematic and historical compilations.

Services and fees

Card catalogues (1945-1986) and various databases (1987- present) are available to researchers.  Services include research, screening and duplication.  Nominal service fees and royalty fees are charged. Duplications are limited to betacam, 3/4"Umatic and VHS on NTSC only. Standard conversions (PAL, SECAM), and film transfers are referred to external laboratories. Messenger and shipping costs are borne by the requester.

Inquiries/Orders:

Audio/Visual Production Libraries Unit
Department of Public Information
Room S-894 B
United Nations, NY 10017

FAX: (212) 963-3430
E-mail: avlibr@un.org