How to request library materials

The Patricia D. Klingenstein Library is closed temporarily to researchers

As New-York Historical prepares for the groundbreaking and construction of its new wing, the Library is temporarily closed to researchers. We expect to reopen in early 2024.

A tremendous amount of information about the Library's collection is available through the New-York Historical website: library catalog, finding aids for archival collections, and digital collections. In addition, the library staff will continue to field general queries, reference questions, and special requests while the library is closed to researchers. Email us at reference@nyhistory.org.

Once you have created an Aeon Collections Request Account, you may begin requesting items through our Library's catalog. To begin, search our catalog:

When you find the item you are looking for, click on the title:

Scroll down and click "Click here to request N-YHS materials":

You will be brought to the Aeon login page, if you are not already logged in. Enter your username and password as you normally would. New users should proceed with the registration process; the item you requested will still be pending after you complete the registration process.

Upon logging in, the request form will automatically populate with Location, Call Number, Title, Author, and Date information for the item you are requesting. Remember to enter the scheduled date in its proper field by clicking on the small calendar icon, since this information does not automatically populate.

If you are requesting an item of multiple volumes, issues or dates, please manually enter the volume(s), issue(s), or date(s), if known. Also, please remember that selecting "Keep in Review" places your request in a private holding queue that the librarians cannot see, and therefore we will be unable to process your request.

Once you click "Submit Request", your request will be routed to the library department for processing. Note the "Status" highlighted below; this will let you know your request was sent. This status will change to "Appointment Confirmed" after you appointment has been confirmed with LibraryAppts@nyhistory.org.

Special Request Situations

When requesting materials from our Manuscripts Department or Department of Prints, Photographs and Architectural Collections, please follow the directions here when making a request.