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SAIC Access to the Franke Reading Room: Requesting Archives Appointments

How to access the Franke Reading Room to consult the collections of the Ryerson & Burnham Libraries and the Art Institute of Chicago Archives

Archives Contact, Usage, & FAQ: Visiting the Archives

Visiting the Archives

  • SAIC researchers may consult archival collections in the Research Center’s Franke Reading Room by advance appointment only. Walk-in appointments are not possible.
  • Archival research appointments for SAIC students are available Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., and may be requested here:  Make an Appointment

  • Archival research appointments for SAIC faculty and staff are available Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., and may be requested here: Make an Appointment

  • Reading room capacity is currently limited. Research appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, and will be confirmed via email by Research Center staff. 
  • Researchers must complete a pre-registration process and submit their request for materials one week prior to arrival onsite for the appointment. Information regarding this process will be provided to researchers along with their appointment confirmation. If these steps are not completed one week in advance of the requested date and time, appointments will be canceled.
  • Archival collection researchers should review the Archives access guidelines and procedures before their appointment.

Safety and Security

Researchers agree to follow the museum’s safety and security guidelines in addition to established reading room policies, including:

  • Researchers must wear a mask for the duration of their research appointments.

  • Please do not move reading room chairs and please keep a six-foot distance from Research Center staff and other researchers.

  • Please cancel your appointment if you are feeling ill or exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms. Appointments may be cancelled by emailing archivesappt@artic.edu or by calling (312) 857-7676. Research Center staff will work with you to reschedule your appointment as quickly as possible.

  • Visitors from outside Chicago are subject to the policies and procedures outlined in the City of Chicago’s travel advisory.

Contact Us

The Art Institute of Chicago Archives

For information on our collections, the history of the Art Institute and the School of the Art Institute, donation proposals, corrections, comments, and general questions, please contact Archives staff at archives@artic.edu.