Reading Room

The Reading Room is located at 6050 S. Kenwood in Chicago. Our Reading Room has microform readers, printers, and power outlets for the use of researchers while on site. 

The Reading Room is open by appointment to CRL members. Please consult our member list for more information.

  • To use the Reading Room make an appointment at least three days prior to a visit.
  • Reading Room appointments are available Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (CST).
  • Within reason, users may bring their own devices, such as laptops, phones and cameras, to capture copies for their research use.
  • CRL reserves the right to refuse access to the reading room to persons whose behavior or activities are unreasonable, unlawful, or hazardous.
  • CRL follows fair use guidelines for copyright. CRL staff will not provide copyright or publication advice to researchers.
  • In instances of simultaneous requests for materials or equipment, priority will be given to a patron from a member library.

Requesting Materials for Use in the Reading Room

  • Contact the Access Services Department at 773-955-4545 ext.288 or email tnettles@crl.edu to make arrangements for a visit.
    • Tell us the titles of the material you would like to review.
    • Estimate the time you need to engage with the materials when making an appointment. In some cases multiple days may be needed to review material requested. Once on site next day appointments may not be available.
    • Prior to your arrival CRL staff will let you know if the requested title(s) are available.
    • Be sure you know what you want. Paging addotional titles on the day of your appointment may not be accommodated.
  • A Reading Room “request” is defined as a per-title maximum of:
    • 12 reels of microfilm
    • 24 sheets of microfiche