Library/Archives

The formation of The Field Museum Library’s collections began in 1894 with initial transfers of books from the libraries of various departments of the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. Currently, the Library serves the Museum’s staff, visiting scholars and the general public.

June 2013 Update:

The Library/Archives will be closed Friday, June 21, 2013.

The Library/Archives will have limited staff to assist visitors from the public Thursday, June 20 through Friday, June 28, 2013.

Visitors from the public must make an appointment before visiting the library during this time by contacting library@fieldmuseum.org or 312.665.7894.

Visitors from the public who do not have an appointment will be refused entry during this time period.

The Main Library is located in a non-public area on The Field Museum’s third floor. Researchers with confirmed appointments may visit the Library Reading Room between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.  Appointments are required at least 48 hours in advance. To make an appointment to use the Library's collections, please send an email to: harlow@fieldmuseum.org. As the Library's collections do circulate in the museum among staff, it is essential that you check our online catalog and submit a list of titles you wish to view before visiting the Library. Please check our online catalog to begin your research and view the Library's particular holdings. All collections are located in closed stacks. Visitors must submit a request for material to the staff member on duty for retrieval and use in the Reading Room.