The Research Center brings together the divisions of Academic Engagement and Research, the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries, and the Art Institute of Chicago Archives to expand access to the museum’s rich educational and research offerings. The Research Center’s Franke reading room is a shared space in which researchers can consult the collections of the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries and the Art Institute of Chicago Archives.
The reading room is open for onsite, in-person research by appointment only; walk-in visits are not possible.
Archives appointments for the public are available Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and may be requested here. Make an Appointment
Library appointments for the public are available Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and may be requested here. Make an Appointment
Information regarding appointment availability and procedures for museum and SAIC staff is available here.
Reading room capacity is 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 a minimum of one week prior to arrival on-site. Information regarding this process will be provided to researchers along with their appointment confirmation. If these steps are not completed, the appointment will be canceled.
Select the relevant tab above to learn:
Ryerson & Burnham Libraries
For information on the museum collections, library collections, and library services, please contact Library staff at reference@artic.edu.
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.