Hey jwp (btw we use our real names here),
First, try and find out as much as you can about the tape. Perhaps there is some info on the box/reel? At the very least, see if you can pinpoint the date the tape was produced and where (this can help to find out if there are any format issues).
Unfortunately, there have been many video tape formats.
Once you have as much info as you can, you need to seek out a facility that does video transfers.
I suggest that you join the ARSC list and ask over there. That list is populated with archivists both public and private and they should be able to point you to someone not too far from you who can do the transfer.
The guys over there specialize in sound but many of them deal with video also.
http://www.arsc-audio.org/index.phpHere's a sample of the kinds of folks who you should be looking for.
http://www.labguysworld.com/VTR_Links.htm
