Updates on Access to the Library
It has been two years since the Library's post-pandemic reopening and the advent of our more liberal access policy which is based on research need rather than credentials.
While expanding remote services and reviving community events like the Reader Coffee Hour and Brown Bag Talks, the Library also extended Ahmanson access to six days a week. However, the uptake of Saturday morning hours has been limited. After careful consideration, we are dropping half-day Saturdays in favor of expanded weekday hours. Additionally, readers will no longer need to make seat reservations in advance of their visit.
We hope these changes will make access to the Library easier for both new and returning readers. We are delighted to be able to offer such a robust suite of on-site and virtual services, completely free of charge, to thousands of users each year—and now to a much broader and more diverse readership than at any time in the Library's history.
Please see below for details:
Expanded Weekday Hours
Note: The Library is closed Memorial Day weekend (May 27- 29)
From Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 forward:
Monday, Thursday, and Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Tuesday and Wednesday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Weekends and Holidays: Closed
Note that during the Library’s open hours, readers will have access to both reading rooms and the Reader Welcome Center.
Changes to Reservations and Appointments
Also beginning Tuesday, May 30:
We will no longer require or take seat reservations for individual readers.
Seats in the reading rooms will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
New and renewing readers still need to make registration appointments.
If you have an existing registration appointment, there’s no need to re-book.
Important Note: Researchers working in teams should request a reservation in advance by emailing reference@huntington.org.
General Admission to The Huntington
Going forward, the Reader's Card will apply only to the use of the Library and its reading rooms. General admission to The Huntington will require a ticket, membership, or other affiliate privilege. Readers without tickets or membership still will have access to the Education and Visitor Center area, including Red Car coffee shop, 1919 café, and the Huntington Store. Please see our Visit page for more information on general admission and membership.
The website will be updated shortly to reflect these changes.
