Research Services
Not able to visit us in person? The Arkansas State Archives offers limited research services to our patrons who cannot make it to one of our three locations. We currently offer up to two hours of free research.
To use these services, simply fill out our Ask An Archivist form or email us and include:
- A description of the information or record type for which you are looking
- Any names, dates, counties, etc., you have that will help us narrow the search
Within three to four days of submitting your request, you will receive a reply confirming that we received your email. Our staff will contact you if more information is needed. Depending on the number of research requests our staff is processing at the moment, it may be one to three weeks after confirmation of your request before the results are delivered to you. Please note that while the State Archives is glad to help with your request, we sometimes receive a high volume of email. If you feel your question is urgent, you may want to call us directly.
While our main location in Little Rock contains records from all over the state, our two regional branch archives, the Northeast Arkansas Regional Archives (NEARA) and the Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives (SARA) house region-specific collections, and may have more access to local town or family records. Their staff availability, however, is limited, and they may not be able to fill all research requests.
Ordering Microfilm
The Arkansas State Archives makes copies of microfilm reels in its extensive collection of over 3,000 Arkansas newspaper titles available for sale to the general public and to institutions. Currently, the cost for a reel of duplicate silver film is $80 plus shipping and handling. If you would like to order microfilm please email [email protected] with the following information:
- Roll Numbers
- Newspaper Titles
- Dates on those rolls
- City
A staff member will complete a Microfilm Order Form with the total cost for you to approve and sign.
Mail your order form, a check, money order or cash payment to:
Arkansas State Archives
One Capitol Mall, Room 2B-215
Little Rock, AR 72201
Your requested copies will be delivered to you by return or can be picked up at our offices. Please note the Arkansas State Archives is unable to take payment by credit or debit card. If orders require additional research, a staff member will contact you before the research is conducted.
If the materials are being requested for use in any type of publication (e.g., scholarly, commercial, online), please complete the Permission to Use Form located below, including in it the title and nature of your project.
Ordering Copies
To order physical or digital copies of materials in the State Archives' holdings, please email [email protected] with the title or description of the materials and whether you wish to purchase a photocopy or scan. Our photocopies are priced by the page, and media reproductions are priced by the size and type of the reproduction ordered. See full pricing information is listed below.
After you contact us with your order information, a staff member will locate the materials to determine an accurate page count or size. Then, they will contact you with the price of your order. After receiving the page count or size and the price of the order, please fill out the appropriate order form located below and mail it with your payment.