We invite researchers to consult books, manuscripts, periodicals, pamphlets, broadsides, and other printed materials in the William H. Scheide Reading Room. Walk-ins are welcome and appointments are optional.

The Reading Room is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. We close daily for lunch from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Questions about research, appointments, and accessibility accommodations may be directed to reference@librarycompany.org.

Preparing for your visit

The How to Search Collections guide will help you understand how to request materials and navigate the Library Company’s online catalogs, finding aids, and other resources.

Each time you visit the Library Company, please check in at the front desk. You may bring pencils and notebooks into the Reading Room, as well as computers, cameras, cellphones, and tablets. The Library Company provides free wifi to library patrons. You may also use the desktop catalog terminals available in the Reading Room.

Please stow away 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.

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.