Using Our Collections

Using Our Collections

The contents of the Historical Collection are located in several rooms and vaults in the Institute on the third floor of the Welch Library building, as well as on the top three levels of the Welch Library’s eight-floor book stacks.

The Historical Collection is open for visitors on weekdays from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm, excluding University holidays.

To request an appointment please fill out our Historical Collection Appointment Request form. Please wait for confirmation from Historical Collection staff before planning your visit.

The Day of Your Visit

Garage parking is available at the Washington Street Garage. Paid street parking is also available.

Hopkins affiliates may take advantage of the University’s shuttle services.

Public transportation options include Brown, Gold, and Pink city bus lines, the Green Charm City Circulator route, and the Metro SubwayLink.

When you arrive for your visit please sign in at the security desk and inform them you are here for an appointment. Hopkins affiliated visitors will need to display their JHED badge at all times.

Take the elevator to the third floor, the Historical Collection is in Room 325.

Visitors may bring only silenced cell phones, digital cameras, pencils, and laptops or tablets without cases into the reading room. Power cords and headphones for electronic equipment are permitted, as are rulers and magnifying glasses. All other materials will be stored for you.