WorldCat



John Hay Library

Visiting the John Hay Library

The John Hay Library offers quiet study space as well as viewing of Brown’s special collections through exhibitions and appointment-only viewings of materials for research.

Access

Under current University guidance in response to the tragic shooting on campus in December, access to the Rockefeller, Sciences, and Orwig Music libraries is restricted to current Brown and RISD ID holders. Access to the Hay is fully available to Brown and RISD ID holders by card swipe through the accessible entrance, and to visitors under special circumstances, described below.

Special Visitor Access

Special access to the John Hay Library is allowable for the following visit types:

  • Researchers external to Brown may request an appointment in advance to view materials in the Gildor Family Special Collections Reading Room. Researchers not affiliated with Brown must confirm their appointment upon arrival.
  • Exhibits may be viewed by visitors without a Brown or RISD ID on Wednesdays from 2 to 6 p.m. and Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. Visitors of this type will be asked to present identification and sign in. See Exhibits at the Brown University Library for information about current and past exhibits.
  • Guests of Brown departments must request an appointment in advance via email at hay@brown.edu. A faculty or staff member from the department must accompany the guest for the duration of the visit.
  • Guests visiting through Admission are welcome to visit the John Hay Library upon presenting identification provided by Admission.
  • Event attendees must register in advance and may be required to present identification.
  • Donors of materials must first complete the Donor Inquiry Form before dropping off items. If the materials are appropriate for special collections, a staff member will make an appointment with the donor.

Thank you for your understanding.

Wireless Access

Wireless access is available throughout the Library. Brown users connect by visiting http://wifi.brown.edu. Guest Access is also available.

Reading Rooms

  • The grand Willis Reading Room on the first floor is available for individual quiet study.
  • Research visits to the Gildor Family Special Collections Reading Room on the first floor are available on an appointment-only basis Monday through Friday. See Using Special Collections for additional information about requesting materials and scheduling appointments.

Physical Accessibility

The accessible entrance is located on the north side of the building. Accessible and gender neutral bathrooms are located on the main level and the third floor. The Bopp Seminar Room, Primary Source Lab, Anne S. K. Brown Military Collection Gallery, and staff offices on the top floor are all accessible by elevator. The Bruhn Room is not accessible.

Food and Drink

Visitors may enjoy food and beverages in the first floor lounge, located to the right of the main entrance. A water fountain is located near the restrooms.