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Using the Library

Information for readers and fellows.

How to Access the Library

Complete an application in Aeon, the library’s online system.  

  • Applications are typically processed within one week. Reader Services will contact you if more information is needed. 
  • By creating an Aeon account, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the library's Terms and Conditions. 
  • Please note: Library access cannot be issued or renewed for ancillary privileges, including access to electronic resources, subscription databases, or admission to the Huntington grounds.

If you're unsure if you already have an Aeon account with the Huntington, please contact the library for assistance.

Book an in-person Library Orientation appointment to receive a library card as a new or renewing researcher. To view materials immediately following your appointment, refer to the next step.

Incoming Fellows: Reader Services will contact you to schedule a library orientation. Please proceed to Step 3.

For accessibility accommodations, please click here.

Special Collection materials may be requested prior to your orientation appointment through Aeon.  

General Collection materials are available following your orientation appointment. 

  • These items are noted with the status ON SHELF or PLACE REQUEST in the library catalog.   

Library Orientation

Your first visit to the library includes a brief orientation with Reader Services to receive a library card and discuss information about using the library.

Library collections, reading rooms, and other resources are accessible after attending an orientation.

During the orientation, please be prepared to:

What Can I Bring?

We strongly encourage readers to bring a minimum of personal belongings into the library. Personal items cannot be stored in the library overnight or for extended periods.

Prohibited Items:

  • Food and beverages must be stored in a locker or outside the library.
  • Pens, correction fluid, highlighters, post-its, staplers, paper clips, scissors, glue
  • Flatbed scanners, portable scanners, copy stands, tripods

Permitted in Reading Rooms and Library Spaces:

  • Laptops, tablets, cell phones, and charging cables
  • Notebooks and loose-leaf papers (permitted in General Collections Reading Room only)
  • Digital photography (non-DSLR) is allowed as long as the device is silenced and the flash is turned off.
  • Pencils

Store in Locker: The Huntington provides free, self-service lockers in the Munger Research Center lobby. Lockers are 14 cubic inches in size.

  • Backpacks, bags, and other personal items
  • Laptop/tablet sleeves and cases
  • Luggage and items larger than 14 cubic inches must be stored in the Admissions Courtyard locker area (see Building A on the Map of the Grounds).

Getting to the Library

Access to the library is free! An admissions ticket or a membership purchase is not required to use the library.

  • Parking at the Huntington is free.
  • Rideshare commuters will find a designated drop-off zone near Admissions.
  • Bicycle racks are located between the parking lot and Admissions.
  • Public transit: The Huntington is located in a residential area, and the nearest bus stops are approximately 1 mile away. Visit Metro.net for details.

Rideshare and GPS address: 1800 Orlando Road, San Marino, CA 91108

Once you arrive:

  1. Proceed to the Munger Research Center, where the Reader Welcome Center is located. The Munger is Building G on the Map of the Grounds.
  2. Check-in with the attendant at the reception desk in the Munger lobby.
  3. Bags and personal items should be stored in the locker room outside the Munger lobby. Permitted items should be carried in a clear plastic bag (available in the locker room).

Be Advised: The library operates during museum hours. Allow yourself extra time to make your way to the Munger Research Center. If you arrive before 10:00 a.m. or on Tuesdays, enter the gate at the intersection of Allen Avenue and Orlando Road, south of California Boulevard.