Order Image Files

Users are free to download the available lower-resolution images for personal use or in classroom educational use. Click on the download tab on digitalsf.org. For higher-resolution images, please use the guide below.

Ordering Instructions

To place a request for digital image files:

1. Complete the Reproduction of Images Form (can be downloaded and filled out online). Please submit ONE form with a listing of Local Identifiers (Photo ID#s) for all images you are requesting.
2. Consult the reproduction fees below.
3. Images found online in SF Digital Collections – digitalsf.org – have existing high resolution TIFF digital files available. Turnaround is within 1-2 weeks. Please include the Local Identifier, not the handle nor the url.
4. New reproductions (images not found online in SF Digital Collections), will take 3-4 weeks to process.
5. Submit the form by email to sfphoto@sfpl.org or in person during the open hours of the Photo Desk.
6. An invoice will be created from the form and will confirm the amount due. For assistance by phone, call the San Francisco History Center Photo Desk: 415-557-4567.

Reproduction fees, payment and delivery options:

• Consult the reproduction fees below.
• Prepayment is required before order is processed.
• Payment by credit card, 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."
  • Payment by credit card is by phone or in person only at the Main Library. No credit card payments accepted online.
  • Bank transfers accepted. Processing of your order will not begin until the Library's Finance Office notifies that full payment has been received. There are no exceptions. This can extend the process about 2 weeks.
• Digital files are transferred via a Hightail link. You do not need an account to access the link to download the image files. Please note links expire within 14 days of being emailed.
• Orders generally take 1-2 weeks to process. However, large or complicated orders may take longer.
• Pending the availability of staff to accommodate the request, RUSH orders for existing digital files only can be completed within one business day. The fee is double the digital file fee.
• The library may charge higher fees for difficult-to-scan items or special RUSH requests.
• No refunds are given.

Reproduction Fees for High Resolution TIFF Digital Files

All images included herein are intended for personal use only. Any reproduction, redistribution, publication, exhibit, or other use, 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.