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The Collection

Explore thousands of artworks in the museum’s collection—from our renowned icons to lesser-known works from every corner of the globe—as well as our books, writings, reference materials, and other resources.

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Research at the Art Institute of Chicago

In addition to being a world-class museum, we are an institution whose academic origin proudly informs our mission. With that in mind, the Art Institute invites scholars, students, teachers, the curious and inspired, and learners of all sorts to take advantage of our world-class library and archives and make use of our research tools, study rooms, and opportunities to learn.

Study Rooms

More about Study rooms

  • Photography

    Photography
    The Photography Study Room is available to the public to view selections from the Art Institute’s photography collection. Groups and individuals are welcome. Study room hours are by appointment only. Tuesday–Thursday, 1:30–4:30.

  • Prints and Drawings

    Prints and Drawings

    The Jean and Steven Goldman Study Center is open for scheduled appointments: Tuesday–Friday, 10:30–11:45, for groups and Tuesday-Thursday, 1:30–4:15, for individuals.

  • Franke Reading Room

    Franke Reading Room
    The Franke Reading Room, the original Ryerson Library, was designed in 1900 by Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge, the architects of the 1893 building on Michigan Avenue. It serves as the main workspace for readers.

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