Near‐field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) has been utilized to study the behavior of liquid crystals at room temperature. The material, 4′‐octyl‐4‐biphenylcarbonitrile (8cb) was studied at the air–liquid interface. The NSOM probe is shown to take an active role in modifying, and subsequently reading, the liquid crystal with about 65 nm resolution. The optical modification is proven to be independent of topographic modification. Results indicate potential technological uses in data storage and displays. ©1995 American Institute of Physics.