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SAIC Access to the Franke Reading Room: Requesting Library Appointments

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

Library Research Appointments

Visiting the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries

  • Researchers may consult library materials in the Research Center’s Franke Reading Room by advance appointment only. Walk-ins are not possible.
  • Reading room capacity is limited, 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 requests for materials one week prior to the appointment. Information on searching our online catalog and making requests is available here. A user ID and password will be provided to researchers along with their appointment confirmation. If materials requests are not received at least one week in advance, appointments will be canceled.
  • Library research appointments for SAIC students are available on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., and may be requested here:  Make an Appointment
  • Library research appointments for SAIC faculty and staff are available on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., and may be requested here:  Make an 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 libraryappt@artic.edu or by calling (312) 443-3665. 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

Ryerson & Burnham Libraries

For information on the museum collections, library collections, and library services, please contact Library staff at reference@artic.edu.