Doors Open 2026: Go Behind–the-Scenes at the Physical Archive

The Internet Archive is excited to offer a behind-the-scenes tour of the physical collections of books, music, film, and video in Richmond, California.

With this special insider event we are opening the doors to an often unseen place. See the lifecycle of physical materials: donation, preservation, digitization, and access. Also, samples from generous donations and acquisitions of books, records, microfiche, and more will be on display.

Guests will be able to explore unique collections contributed by generous donors in the Special Collections Room. Highlights include a glimpse into collections being preserved for Democracy’s Library, local Bay Area donors' unique collections, and collections championed by individual donors. Come explore the rare, quirky and wonderful collections that have found their preservation homes at the Physical Archive!