Public Researchers

The Franke Reading Room is a shared space in which the public can consult the collections of the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries and the Art Institute of Chicago Archives. The reading room is located just south of the Grand Staircase inside the museum's Michigan Avenue entrance.

Public Research Hours

The Franke Reading Room is open to public researchers by appointment on Mondays, Wednesday, Thursdays, and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. 

The Ryerson and Burnham Libraries and the Art Institute of Chicago Archives steward several distinct collections. You can explore the catalog here. Archival materials are organized into finding aids which can be reviewed here. 

Archival collection researchers should review the Archives access guidelines and procedures before their appointment.

Make a Library Appointment      Make an Archives Appointment

• Appointments are first-come, first-served and will be confirmed via email within ten business days
• Requests for library and archival materials must be received in advance. Archives staff work with researchers to identify and select materials leading up to the appointment. Materials requests should be made within 48 hours of the appointment time.
• Visitors agree to follow the museum’s safety and security guidelines in addition to established reading room policies.
• Seats in the reading room are limited. Please notify us if you can not attend your appointment.