Using the Library

Mask Policy

In line with Los Angeles County’s Mask Wearing Rules and Recommendations for indoor public spaces, masks are strongly recommended but not required while using the library. Researchers who prefer to wear a mask may continue to do so. Disposable masks are available in a dispenser in the Munger lobby.

Reader Vaccination Policy

In its continued effort to protect the health and well-being of our staff and patrons, The Huntington requires all readers to be "up-to-date" by Monday, March 7, 2022.  “Up-to-date” means a person is fully vaccinated, has received a booster dose, or is fully vaccinated but not yet booster-eligible.

By requesting an appointment to use the Library, you agree to follow the institution's vaccination policy and comply with the following requirements:

You attest to being "up-to-date" and understand that you must present proof for entry.

Each time you arrive for an appointment, be sure to bring:

• Proof of your appointment AND
• Current reader card (if already issued) AND
• CDC Vaccination Card (original) or other original certificate issued by a governmental health service OR
• Digital COVID-19 vaccine record with QR code OR
• Digital image of the front of your original vaccine card that includes your full name, vaccine product name, and dates administered.

Researchers must continue to follow health and safety guidelines.

Currently, we are unable to accept proof of a negative test or grant exemptions. We will update researchers when there are changes to institutional policy and library capacity. As stated above, vaccine verification will be checked at the door each time you arrive for an appointment.

When making an appointment or contacting the library, do not upload any images of your vaccination record. Please do not share any medical information when communicating with Huntington staff.

The library is open by appointment to researchers, including both first-time applicants and renewing readers. Before visiting the library, please be sure to have identified the materials you wish to see; start by searching Summon Discovery or contact us for help finding materials related to your research.

Use this checklist to prepare for your library visit:

1. Create an account in Aeon, the library's online system. If you are unsure if you already have an Aeon account with the Huntington, please contact us.
   • If you will be working with rare (primary source) materials, log in to Aeon to request the materials. Visit the how-to guide for step-by-step instructions. If you do not have rare materials requested, your appointment could be cancelled.
2. Request an appointment at least three business days in advance of your visit. Reader Services staff will review your appointment request and follow up with you shortly. Only researchers with confirmed appointments will be admitted to the library. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
   • Reader Services will schedule a 15-minute orientation for your first visit to issue your library card and review updated procedures.
   • Although staff try to accommodate a reader’s first choice and travel plans, be aware that orientation appointments are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Review the reading room policies and rules of conduct outlined in this research guide.
4. Bring a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license, state ID or passport) with you to your orientation appointment.

Please contact the library with questions about appointments.

We are renewing library cards based on a need to use the library's materials. If you are looking to review rare materials, please follow the steps below.

1.  If you will be working with rare (primary source) materials, log in to Aeon to request the materials. Visit the Aeon Research Guide for step-by-step instructions. 
   • Special Collections Reading Room visits require that rare/primary sources are requested beforehand via your Aeon account. However, General Collections Reading Room does not have this requirement.
   • Keep your research focus updated in your Aeon profile with a brief description. 
2. Request an appointment at least three business days in advance of your intended return visit. Reader Services staff will review your appointment request and follow up with you shortly. Only researchers with confirmed appointments will be admitted to the library. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
   • Reader Services will schedule a 15-minute orientation for your first, return visit to issue your library card and review updated procedures. 
   • To expedite your reading room seat confirmation, be sure to have requested any special collections items you wish to review in your Aeon account. 
3. Review the reading room policies and rules of conduct outlined in this research guide.

Access to the library is free; you do not need to pay admission to the Huntington grounds or become a member to use the library. Parking is free. Rideshare commuters will find a designated drop-off zone near the Admissions courtyard, and there is a bicycle rack in the parking lot. When you arrive:

1. Proceed to the Munger Research Center, where the Reader Welcome Center is located. See the map of the grounds for directions to the Munger.
2. Check-in at the reception desk in the Munger lobby. Security staff will ask you to present an appointment confirmation, a photo ID and proof of vaccination.
3. Please store bags and personal items in the locker room outside the Reader Services office after checking in. You may borrow a clear plastic bag (available in the locker room) if you need assistance carrying your belongings.

At the beginning of your first visit to the library, you'll meet with a Reader Services staff member for a brief library orientation to issue/renew your library card and review library procedures.

• Bring a current government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport) with you to your orientation.
• Be prepared to have your photo taken for identification purposes.

TIP: 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., enter the grounds at the Allen gate, located at the intersection of Allen Avenue and Orlando Road, south of California Boulevard.
Rideshare and GPS address: 1800 Orlando Road, San Marino, CA 91108.

Holiday closures for the Library include but are not limited to:

• Saturday, January 14 to Monday, January 16, 2023 - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Saturday, February 18 to Monday, February 20, 2023 - Presidents' Day weekend
• Saturday, May 27 to Monday, May 29, 2023 - Memorial Day weekend
• Saturday, June 17 to Monday, June 19, 2023 - Juneteenth weekend
• Tuesday, July 4, 2023 - Independence Day

Visit the Reading Room Calendar homepage for the latest information on Library closures.