Special Collections Reading Room

To access archival papers, photographs, or graphic arts holdings, you must reserve an appointment in the Library’s Special Collections (Katharine Hepburn) Reading Room. Special Collections appointments are also required to access all photographic materials – including those in the Core Collection. You must send a list(s) of what you’d like to access at least 7 days in advance through the Academy Collection search portal and book on the calendar. If you have not completed both steps, your appointment is not complete. Accordingly, the calendar booking window begins 7 days out from the current date.

*Except for Core Collection photographic material, appointments are not required to access anything in the Core Collection (books, periodicals, clipping files, Core scripts, and oral histories).

Review the library rules, hours, and safety policies before you request an appointment. 

The Margaret Herrick Library is a specialized research library devoted to motion pictures. The reference staff is available to answer questions about the Library and its collections, and to assist individuals conducting motion picture-related research.

Please be aware that materials in the library do not circulate.

Have questions? Email ref@oscars.org

Library Hours:
The library is open by appointment:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
• Closed Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, major holidays, and other planned closures.

Reference Assistance

Academy Collections

Catalogs & Databases

Library Catalog