Visitor Information

General Information

The Ewell Sale Stewart Library and Archives are open to the public by appointment. Call 215-299-1040 or email or to schedule appointments or for more information. Postal inquiries may be sent to:

Library and Archives
The Academy of Natural Sciences
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103-1195

Registration

Researchers wishing to use the collections of the Library and Archives can set up an appointment via email or phone. They will be asked to identify the materials needed for their research in advance of the appointment so staff can have the material ready for the visit. When arriving for the appointment, researchers will present a current photo ID and complete the Application for Research Form.

Researchers will leave all personal items (including briefcases and bags) at the designated area while visiting the Library and Archives.

 

Using the Library and Archives Collections

Library Materials

The Library provides access to its printed materials through a library catalog system available at work stations in the Reading Room or via the Online Catalog. The Library uses Library of Congress classification system. Please copy the complete LC call number as well as any location and format information when requesting items.

The collections are non-circulating, and the stacks are closed to the public. Materials needed will be brought to the researcher in the reading room for use.

Archives and Manuscripts

The Academy Archives welcomes researchers on-site and also offers consultation to those unable to visit in person. Appointments are required for on-site research. To request an appointment, contact:

Clare Fleming, M. S., C. A
Brooke Dolan Archivist
The Academy of Natural Sciences
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103-1195
215-299-1075

Go to Academy Archives for more information on archival finding aids, guides and archival services.

Handling Materials

No food or drink is allowed in the library. Handle all materials from the collection carefully. Researchers are required to use only pencils or laptops when taking notes no pens are allowed.

Photocopying

Self-service photocopies may be made of items in good condition from the general collection. Self-service photocopies are $0.50 per page. Library staff will photocopy rare or fragile materials for $1.00 per page.
Photocopies can also be provided in response to off-site requests (via mail, email or phone). The fee for this service is $40 plus $0.50 per page.

Other imaging of rare and fragile materials and photography work must be arranged through our Reproduction Services. Hand-held digital cameras may be used to make copies of materials with prior consent and instruction by staff.

Electronic Resources

Electronic Resources, including online databases and electronic journals, are available on the public access computers located in the librarys reading room. There is no charge.

Reproduction Services

Images for research or publication are provided upon request. Detailed information on reproductive services and publication rights is available at Reproduction Services.

Reference Assistance

Professional librarians and archivists can provide guidance in locating information within the collections via phone, email, or in-person by appointment. In-depth research services are offered at a fee of $50/hour.