Distribution Copies

Distribution files are created to provide easy access to the content of a moving image or sound record. They are often highly compressed and are not intended to substitute for the original record if the original is damaged, destroyed, or not retained. Distribution files are not intended to be retained indefinitely in managed digital storage. They are available for access in the Moving Image and Sound Research Room and/or the National Archives Catalog.

The Motion Picture Preservation Lab currently retains the ability to produce film theater prints from analog motion picture sources, although this is only done in special cases.

Digital distribution copies are generally derived from preservation master or reproduction master files.