Franke Reading Room: Requesting Library Appointments

Visiting the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries

• Visitors to the museum may consult library materials in the Research Center’s Franke Reading Room by advance appointment only. Walk-in appointments are not possible.
• Library research appointments for SAIC students, 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 a Library 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 on-site. 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 are not requested at least one week in advance of the requested appointment date and time, appointments will be canceled.

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.

Ryerson & Burnham Libraries

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