Order Scans

icon camera   Photographs and visual materials are scanned as TIFF files.

Instructions

To place a scan order:

  1. Complete the Reproduction of Images Form (PDF) (can be filled out online but cannot be saved to your computer).

  2. Submit the form by email sfphoto@sfpl.org or in person during the open hours of the Photo Desk. Please confirm amount before mailing payment. For assistance by phone, call the San Francisco History Center Photo Desk: 415-557-4567.

Scan fees, payment and delivery options:

  • Consult the scan fees below.

  • Prepayment is required.

    • Payment by cash, money order and check drawn on a U.S. bank are accepted.

    • Please make check or money order payable to "San Francisco Public Library."

    • Currently, credit cards are accepted in-person only at the Main Library.

  • Bank transfers accepted. Processing of your order will not begin until Library's Finance Office notifies that full payment has been received. There are no exceptions. This can delay the turnaround from 2 to 4 weeks.

  • TIFF files are burned to a CD or sent via FTP using Hightail.

  • Orders are generally completed within 7 business days, however large or complicated orders may take longer.

  • The library may charge higher fees for difficult to scan items or special RUSH requests.

  • No refunds are given.

Scan Fees

Type Fee
Existing scan 300 dpi TIFF (in online database) $15.00
New scan 300 dpi TIFF (not yet digitized) $20.00
New scan 600 dpi TIFF $35.00
New scan 1200 dpi TIFF $50.00
New scan 4000 ppi TIFF slides, negatives & glass plates $35.00

Delivery

Method Cost
CD Charge $1.00
Shipping $3.00
FTP FREE


All images included herein are intended for personal use only. Any reproduction, redistribution, publication, exhibit, or other use, by any means, without prior written permission is prohibited. To reproduce or use the photographs, please complete the appropriate form(s) and submit them to the San Francisco History Center for permission.

For commercial and non-profit use of the images for use in books, journals, magazines/newspapers, documentaries, exhibitions, Internet, and all other uses, please see Permissions.