Using Our Collections

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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.

Request an Appointment

The Day of Your Visit

Getting Here

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.

Entering the Building

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.

Guidelines

Researchers may bring only silenced cell phones, digital cameras, wallets, 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.

Please wash your hands before entering the Rare Book Room. If you have used hand sanitizer, please thoroughly dry your hands so damaging residue is not transferred to the materials. Researchers will not wear gloves, unless handling artifacts.

While in the reading room, you will have access to one box or up to 3 volumes on your table at one time. Let staff know when you are finished, and they will remove the box/book(s) and set up any additional material you have requested.