WorldCat

The Special Collections reading room hours will be limited this summer due to an exterior renovation at the John Hay Library starting in June 2026. A temporary reading room will be available while the John Hay Library is closed. Please visit Brown University Library News for information about reduced access to Special Collections during Summer 2026.

Visitors are welcome to see the exhibitions on Wednesdays, 2 pm to 6 pm, and Fridays, 1 pm to 5 pm. General access to the Rockefeller, Sciences, and John Hay libraries is limited to only current Brown and RISD faculty, staff and students. A current Brown University or RISD ID is required for entry into these libraries.

Notice: The broadside collections will be closed until September 8 due to the Smith Magic Room renovation.



Welcome to the John Hay Library

John Hay Library Hours


Open to current Brown students, faculty, and staff



More hours

Daily:
Last page of items: 30 minutes before closing
Lunch recess: 12-1pm

Please see the Visiting page for more information.


Members of the Brown community and external researchers may submit questions using the the form below. We will assist you as soon as we can.


Contact

Mailing Address
John Hay Library
20 Prospect Street / Box A
Providence, RI 02912
401-863-3723
401-863-2146




The Willis Reading Room at the John Hay LibraryThe Willis Reading Room at the John Hay Library
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The John Hay Library is home to Brown University's remarkable collections of rare books, manuscripts, and University Archives. We are committed to being an active partner in advancing the University's academic mission and are offering new virtual services for students and faculty. We are here for you.