We welcome researchers to consult books and other textual material in the William H. Scheide Reading Room, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. The reading room is closed daily from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Research appointments are encouraged if you wish to guarantee a spot. Walk-ins are accommodated when seats are available.

Research Appointments

In order to schedule a research appointment, please select the link for the month(s) of your intended visit(s). Please pay close attention to the form instructions. Questions about research appointments, accessibility accommodations, or completing the forms may be directed to reference@librarycompany.org.

2023:

• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

Preparing for your visit

Our guide to Finding Materials in LCP Collections may be useful for selecting materials to consult during your visit. This guide provides instructions on how to navigate the Library Company’s online catalogs, finding aids, and other resources.

Feel free to bring your computer, or use the desktop catalog terminals available in the Reading Room; the Library Company provides free wifi to library patrons. You may submit your collection requests by completing call slips upon your arrival.

Each time you visit the Library Company, please check in at the front desk. Please stow all bags, coats, umbrellas, and other bulky items into a locker in the lobby. Please also put away pens, markers, ink, and any kind of food or liquid. These items are not permitted in the reading room. Cameras and personal computers, as well as pencils and notebooks, are permitted.

Reference Assistance

The reading room is staffed by a team of curators, librarians, and others, all with expertise in the collection subject strengths. For reference assistance, please contact reference@librarycompany.org to be connected with a specialist.