Harvard Library welcomes students, faculty, visiting researchers, and members of the public to explore its rare and unique special collections.
These materials are available for use in our reading rooms, and appointments are often recommended to make the most of your visit. Keep reading to learn how to search for and request these materials — and discover the opportunities they offer for research and inspiration.
Find Materials
Harvard Library offers different search tools for different types of research. You can find special collections and archival materials a few different ways. Each system has different options for filtering by library, for digital materials, and more.
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Searches finding aids, which provide detailed descriptions of collections
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Try filtering results by archives/manuscripts, images, or library
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For visual materials
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An experimental, AI-powered discovery tool that currently searches a sampling of our most popular collections
Request Materials
If you’re planning to view materials in person, we recommend submitting your request in advance. Some items are stored offsite, so it may take a few days to have them ready. Many libraries also require appointments to reserve space in their reading rooms. Planning ahead ensures a smooth visit, and you’re always welcome to contact the holding library to confirm your plans.
To submit a request to view materials in person:
In HOLLIS for Archival Discovery
- Click "Add to my request list."
- Once your request list is complete, access your request list from the menu and click Submit.
- This will bring you to the HOLLIS Special Request system.
- Login to HOLLIS Special Request and complete your request.
- Use HOLLIS Special Request to view and manage your pending requests.
In HOLLIS
- Look for access options and click "Request to copy or visit." If there is no request option, contact the holding library directly.
- This will bring you to the HOLLIS Special Request system.
- Login to HOLLIS Special Request and complete your request.
- Use HOLLIS Special Request to view and manage your pending requests.
Make a Reading Room Appointment
Many of our holding libraries encourage or require visitors to make a reading room appointment to view special collection materials. This ensures there is space available on the day you plan to visit. Making a reading room appointment is a separate process from selecting a date when you submit your requests.
Each library has its own policy when it comes to reading room appointments. Visit the website of the library that holds your materials for more details on how to plan your visit.
Prepare for Your Visit
Once you've found and requested your materials, and made a reading room appointment, it's time to prepare for your visit. Here are some things to keep in mind. And as a reminder, don't hesitate to contact the holding library to confirm your plans. They're here to help!
- Photo ID may be required for entry to some reading rooms.
- Library staff are available to provide tips and guidance for handling any fragile materials.
- Archives and special collections stacks are closed to researchers and materials do not circulate beyond reading rooms.
- There may be limits on the amount of material that can be used at any one time.
- Staff may limit what you can bring into the reading room, including bags and other personal property.
- Bags may be subject to search by staff.
- You can use pencils, note paper, and laptop computers for note-taking. Pens and highlighters are not allowed.
- There's no food or drink, including gum and candy, allowed in the reading rooms.