Smithsonian Libraries and its Special Collections

The Smithsonian Libraries and Archives is an international system of 21 library branches and an institutional archives that serves the Institution and the public by supporting curatorial, research, program, exhibition, educational, and other informational needs

Smithsonian Libraries was formally organized in 1968 when a library system was established uniting many of the Institution's museum and research center libraries into a single, comprehensive operation.

The libraries listed below are those that have significant special collections. Call each individual library for specific information and to make an appointment.

• Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum Library
• Dibner Library of the History of Science and Technology
• National Museum of Asian Art Library
• Joseph F. Cullman 3rd, Library of Natural History
• National Air and Space Museum Library
• National Museum of American History Library
• National Postal Museum Library
• Smithsonian American Art Museum/National Portrait Gallery Library

View all Smithsonian Libraries