Using the Library: Policies, Procedures, and Services

Information and Reference Services

Smithsonian Institution Libraries has many resources, including monographs, serials and digital collections. The best way to discover resources is by searching the library catalog. Because we are a unified library system, the online catalog assists researchers in locating titles that best support research needs across the system.

Our online catalog is the Smithsonian Institution Research Information System, or SIRIS. This online catalog contains all holdings for all Smithsonian Institution Libraries. Library staff can provide guidance searching SIRIS, electronic databases, CD-ROMs, and all on-site resources. We can accept reference inquiries by letter, telephone, or e-mail.

Lending Policy

All National Museum of American History Library titles, except reference books and trade literature, can circulate to Smithsonian staff. Permanent staff can borrow books for six months, subject to recall, with renewal by telephone or in person. Circulating library materials are available to the public through the interlibrary loan system provided by public, special, business and academic libraries.

Public Visits

Researchers may visit the National Museum of American History Library by calling beforehand to make an appointment, Monday through Friday, 10 am - 4 pm. Contact us at libmail@si.edu, or call 202.633.3865. When calling to set up a visit, specify your research interests, university or other affiliation, and the time of your visit.

Fax Number
202.357.4256

Hours and Access
Monday – Friday, 8:45 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Open to the public by appointment only, Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed on Federal holidays

Location: Street Address
National Museum of American History Library, Room 5016
Smithsonian Institution, 14th & Constitution Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20560-0630

Mailing address:
National Museum of American History Library, Room 5016
Smithsonian Institution, PO Box 37012
Washington, DC 20013-7012