Rare Book Room has limited availability through May 2025.

The Rare Book Room is open to all researchers—academic or enthusiast—to use materials from the collection in our reading room. The reading room is available by appointment Tuesday through Friday. The collection does not circulate—all materials must remain in the room, no exceptions.

Space is limited. Please request your appointment at least 2 weeks in advance and include items you wish to view. Please be aware of possible limitations on access for more fragile objects. Appointments are limited to a maximum of 2 hours each visit.

What to Expect for Your Appointment

You will be asked to come prepared with clean, dry hands. Restrooms are located on floors 1, 2, and 5.

No food and drink (including water) are permitted in the reading room.

You are welcome to bring a laptop or tablet, camera, notebook, and pencils. Unless other noted or advised, you are welcome to take photographs without flash. Please note you may use your cellphone as a scanning device, but other scanning equipment is not permitted.

You will be asked to store all bags, purses, and personal belongings in the adjacent office inside the Reading Room.

Staff will bring your requested items to you one at a time and provide instructions on how to safely handle items. Please let staff know of anything that you might be uncomfortable handling yourself and they will be happy to assist.

Staff will be present for the duration of your visit and may handle items and turn pages for you, if necessary, depending on item condition or value.

Questions on the research appointment process? Email rarebookroom@phoenix.gov.