Photo ID Required for Use of NARA Research Rooms
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has recently clarified its existing requirements for people who want to use original records in our research rooms, and issued the following statement: “Prospective researchers must present picture identification (such as a driver’s license or school identification card) when they apply for a researcher identification card at any NARA location. The research card is required for anyone who wishes to use original archival materials. Individuals who have recently moved and whose identification is no longer current, must present proof of the new address from an official source, such as a voter registration card, motor vehicle registration, phone or utility bill, or bank statement. As an agency of the federal government, NARA appreciates your understanding of our need to enhance security by clarifying these requirements.”
NARA to Release Census Data
On April 1, 2002, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) will release the 1930 Federal population census. At that time, microfilmed copies of the 15th federal census mandated by the U.S. Constitution will be available for consultation at the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C., and at 13 of the National Archives regional facilities across the nation, and also through the National Archives rental program.
The 1930 census consists of 2,667 rolls of population schedules and 1,587 rolls of Soundex indexes for 12 southern states, totaling 4,254 rolls. The census provides a wealth of socioeconomic information such as the following: names of all persons living in each home; relationship of each person to the head of household; whether the home is owned or rented; value of the home; if the family owns a radio; if they own a farm; whether they attended school or college; if they can read or write; place of birth; citizenship status; and occupation. For a complete listing of National Archives regional facilities and opening times, check the NARA web site at https://www.archives.gov/research/census/about. For more information on the 1930 census, see https://www.archives.gov/research/census/1930.
Library of Congress Publishes New Guide to Women’s History Resources
The Library of Congress has published American Women: A Library of Congress Guide for the Study of Women’s History and Culture in the United States in cooperation with University Press of New England. This latest addition to the library’s series of resource guides provides a blueprint for research in the field of American women’s history and culture using the library’s vast collections in various disciplines and formats. The 456-page softcover book has 12 chapters, nearly 300 illustrations, and five topical essays, many of which are written by the library’s subject area specialists.
