Visitor Information

General Information

The Academy Library and Archives are open to the public for research on weekdays from 10:00am - 4:00pm, by appointment only. Call 215-299-1040 or email library@ansp.org or archives@ansp.org to schedule appointments or for more information. Inquiries may also be sent to:

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

Registration

Researchers wishing to use the collections of the Library and Archives may set up an appointment by email or phone. Researchers 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 their appointments, researchers must present a current photo ID and complete the Application for Research Form. Researchers must also leave all personal items (including briefcases and bags) at the designated area while visiting the Library and Archives.

Library Materials

The Library provides access to its printed materials via the Online Catalog, using the Library of Congress classification system. Please copy the complete LC call number as well as any location and format information when requesting items. The Library collections are non-circulating and the stacks are closed to the public. Requested materials will be brought to the researcher in the Library Reading Room for use.

Archives and Manuscripts

Go to Academy Archives for more information on archival finding aids, guides, and archival services. Please note the Archives collection number and collection name when requesting items. The Archives collection is non-circulating, and the Archives are closed to the public. Requested Archives materials will be brought to the researcher in the Library Reading Room for use.

Handling Materials

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

Imaging

During research, hand-held digital cameras may be used to make copies of materials, with prior consent and instruction by staff. The image must include the Library and Archives citation. This type of image reproduction is for private research use and not for publication, without written permission from the Academy Library and Archives. Other imaging of rare and fragile materials and photography work must be arranged through our Digital Reproduction Services.

Electronic Resources

Electronic Resources, including online databases and electronic journals, are available on the public access computer located in the Library Reading Room. There is no charge for use of these resources.