Book and Manuscript Scanning

Updated January 2024

The NYPL offers scanning services for public domain books from its own collections and manuscript material only. Books from external sources are not scanned.

Instructions for Obtaining a High-Resolution Book/Manuscript Scan

• To request a scan, please fill out and submit the Book/Manuscript Scan Order Form (pdf).
• Once received, the Permissions department will consult with the holding division and the Digital Imaging Unit for review. Please note that the digitization process is subject to the manuscript's condition. Should it necessitate conservation, we regrettably cannot proceed with the request at this time.
• If special handling is not needed, the fee is $100 for up to 100 pages and then $1.00 per page thereafter. For items requiring special handling, the fee starts at $250 per day.
• The turnaround time is 12 to 15 weeks from receipt of payment. There is a 250 capture cap per three-month period. If a manuscript contains pages that surpass the 250 captures, the turnaround period will be extended by an additional 12 weeks for every 250 captures.
• The library will provide a PDF for download via a WeTransfer link.
• Please be aware that some information may not be legible in files delivered for volumes with tight bindings or text running into the gutter.

Payment

• Requests will be invoiced via Freshbooks for payment by credit card or bank transfer (U.S. only) through the Freshbooks website.
• Wire transfer payments are accepted for an additional fee. (Domestic wire transfer fee: $25; international wire transfer fee: $35.) Please email permissions@nypl.org for wire instructions.
• The NYPL only accepts direct payment by check.
• Permissions will not complete any vendor paperwork or international tax forms.

Contact us at permissions@nypl.org if you wish to inquire about obtaining high-resolution TIFF files or have any additional questions.