The Franke Reading Room is a shared space in which researchers can consult the collections of the Libraries and Archives.
Location and Public Hours
Research Center materials are accessible by appointment only. We are a closed-stack library, which means that our research collections are not open for browsing. Instead, we ask that guests search our library catalog before visiting to discover books and other materials relevant to your research.
The reading room is located just south of the Grand Staircase inside the Michigan Avenue entrance to the museum.
Archival research appointments for the public are available Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 1:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Request an appointment using this form.
Library research appointments for the public are available Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 1:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Request an appointment 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 prior to the appointment.
Researchers agree to follow the museum’s visit guidelines in addition to established reading room policies.
Museum Staff Hours
Information on access and services for the museum research community is available here.
SAIC Hours
Information on access and services for the SAIC research community is available here.
