Submission of General Material

The Icelandic Film Archive calls for and gratefully accepts film material that is not subject to mandatory submission but holds historical and cultural value for the country and nation. The archive receives material from various sources, such as:

  • Other public organizations
  • Various movements and organizations
  • Companies
  • Estates
  • Embassies

Please Keep the Following in Mind When Submitting Material:

  • The archive primarily accepts original old materials, such as those found in estates.
  • The archive does not accept copies on tapes, such as television recordings, old video movies, or other duplicates.
  • A description of the material should be as detailed as possible given the circumstances.
  • It is preferable that the donor or rights holder grants permission to sort and select (and remove) materials when applicable. Sorting and selecting are always based on professional reasoning and are carried out following the current laws governing the Icelandic Film Archive.
  • Please submit a formal request with a description of the material at the contact box found on our homepage. The Icelandic Film Archive will respond promptly.

When Material Has been submitted

  • When film material is donated to the Icelandic Film Archive, it is stored under conditions that ensure the most prolonged possible preservation. Upon reception, the film material is cataloged individually or as part of a collection. Film reels are repackaged in storage cases.
  • Copyright does not change when a film is submitted to the Icelandic Film Archive unless otherwise agreed. The donor has the right to transfer the rights of submitted films to the Icelandic Film Archive if they are sure they hold those rights.
  • The Icelandic Film Archive is authorized to process and use all material stored within the archive. Material is not handed over to third parties without the rights holder’s permission.
  • The Icelandic Film Archive reserves the right to dispose of duplicates or film fragments or return them to the donor upon special request.
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Permanent Preservation

All material received for preservation at the Icelandic Film Archive is kept permanently. Original materials are not returned (except under exceptional circumstances), but a digital copy of the requested material can be obtained according to the archive’s agreement and/or fee schedule.