Using the Library: Policies, Procedures, and Services

Information and Reference Services
The online catalog of the Smithsonian Institution Libraries is available on SIRIS, the Smithsonian Institution Research Information System. This catalog shows the holdings of all of the Smithsonian Institution Libraries. Library staff is happy to provide guidance in searching SIRIS, electronic databases, CD-ROMs, and all other on-site resources. Library staff accepts reference inquiries by letter, telephone, or e-mail.

Lending Policy
All Museum Studies Reference Library branch materials, except reference books and Smithsoniana, are available for circulation to Smithsonian staff. Books may be borrowed by permanent staff for six months, subject to recall, with renewal by telephone or in person. Library materials that circulate are available to the public through the interlibrary loan system provided by public, special, business and academic libraries (Interlibrary loan link).

Public Visits
Researchers may visit the Museum Studies & Reference Library by appointment, Monday through Friday between 10 am-4 pm. Please contact us at libmail@si.edu, or call ahead: (202) 633-1700. When calling, specify your research interests, university or other affiliation (if you have one), and specify the time of your visit.