The Newberry is pleased to begin welcoming visitors back into the library. For months, we’ve been preparing to safely resume some library activities onsite while continuing to offer a range of virtual engagement opportunities online.

With the health and safety of our staff and visitors top of mind, we’ve changed some policies and adopted new precautionary measures based on guidelines from public health officials.

Learn more in our FAQ for visitors.

Reading Rooms

The reading rooms will reopen Tuesday, August 25. To limit the number of people in the reading rooms and ensure social distancing, we’re requiring researchers to make an appointment at least five business days in advance of visiting. Other safety precautions include the required use of masks, social distancing, quarantining of collection items after use, regular disinfecting of computers and desks, and other daily cleaning activities.

Learn about making an appointment to use the Newberry’s collection in person.

Exhibitions

Renaissance Invention: Stradanus’s "Nova Reperta" will open Friday, August 28 in the Newberry’s Trienens Galleries. Decision 1920: A Return to "Normalcy” will open Tuesday, September 15 in the Hanson Galleries.

While appointments will not be required to visit exhibitions, visitors must sign in with our staff in the lobby upon arrival so we may limit entry into the galleries.

Learn about visiting the Newberry to see an exhibition.

Programs

All programs for students, teachers, scholars, and the public will continue to be held virtually. The Newberry’s adult education seminars will remain online as well.

View the calendar of programs to see what’s coming up next.