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Using the Library

Information for Readers and Fellows.

Research Visit Checklist

Use this checklist to prepare for your visit:

  1. Identify the specific materials you anticipate working with. Start by searching Summon Discovery or contact the library for assistance.
  2. 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 the library.
  3. Log in to Aeon to request any rare materials you plan to work with. Refer to the how-to guide for step-by-step instructions.
  4. New and renewing readers must visit the Reader Services Calendar homepage to schedule an in-person library orientation to receive a library card.
    • Incoming Long-term and Short-term Fellows: Reader Services will contact you to schedule a library orientation once the appropriate processes are completed with the Research Division.
  5. Review the reading room policies and rules of conduct outlined in this research guide.

What Should I Bring?

Bring these items to your first-visit orientation:

  • Current government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
  • Be prepared to have your photo taken for identification purposes.

Readers may bring the following items into the library:

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

The following items are not permitted:

  • Pens, correction fluid, highlighters, post-its, staplers, paper clips, scissors, glue.
  • Cameras that cannot be silenced (including shutter clicks) and camera light attachments.
  • Flatbed scanners, portable scanners, copy stands.
  • Laptop/tablet sleeves must be stored in a locker.

Backpacks, bags, and other personal items must be stored in the Munger Research Center locker room. Food and beverages should be enjoyed outside of the library.

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

When You Arrive

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 at the Huntington is free. Rideshare commuters will find a designated drop-off zone near the Admissions courtyard. A bicycle rack is located in the parking lot.

When you arrive:

  1. Proceed to the Munger Research Center, where the Reader Welcome Center is located (see Building G on the Map of the Grounds).
  2. Check-in with the attendant at the reception desk in the Munger lobby.
  3. Store bags and personal items in the locker room outside the Reader Services office. You may borrow a clear plastic bag (available in the locker room) to carry your belongings.

NOTE: 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

Library Holiday Closures: Autumn/Winter 2024-25

Upcoming holiday closures for the Library include but are not limited to:

  • Labor Day: Monday, September 2, 2024
  • Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29, 2024
  • Winter Holiday: Monday, December 23, 2024 through Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Visit the Reader Services Calendar homepage for the latest information on Library closures.

COVID-19: Recommendations for Visitors

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 wish to wear a mask may continue to do so. Disposable masks are provided in a dispenser in the Munger lobby.