The Ryerson and Burnham Libraries constitute a major art and architecture research collection serving the museum and the public in the fields of art and architectural history.
LOCATION AND PUBLIC HOURS
The Art Institute’s Research Center brings together the divisions of Academic Engagement and Research, the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries, and the Art Institute of Chicago Archives to expand access to the museum’s research resources.
The Research Center’s Franke Reading Room is a shared space in which researchers can consult the collections of the Libraries and Archives. The reading room is located just south of the Grand Staircase inside the Michigan Avenue entrance to the museum.
PUBLIC RESEARCH HOURS
Research Center materials are accessible by appointment only.
Archival research appointments for the public are available Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays,1:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m., and may be requested using this form.
Library research appointments for the public are available Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays,1:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m., and may be requested using this form.
Appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will be confirmed within two business days.
Researchers must complete a pre-registration process and submit requests for materials one week prior to the appointment.
Researchers agree to follow the museum’s visit guidelines in addition to established reading room policies.
STAFF AND SAIC RESEARCH HOURS
Access procedures for museum staff are available here.
Appointment availability and access for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago community is available here.
APPOINTMENT GUIDELINES
Please cancel your appointment if you are feeling ill or exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms. Appointments may be canceled or rescheduled by emailing libraryappt@artic.edu or archivesappt@artic.edu or by calling (312) 443-3666.
Learn more about research appointments in the Franke Reading Room.
Search the Online Catalog
CONNECT WITH US
You can learn more about the Ryerson & Burnham Libraries and our collections on our social media accounts:
