- We ask that all library patrons and visitors complete a registration form. This process takes less than five minutes and grants you access to the vast collections and library resources. Library patrons and visitors can register in advance by completing the Patron Registration Form, which is available here. Once registered, all patrons must check in at the circulation desk upon entering the library.
- All briefcases, backpacks, rolling suitcases, umbrellas, and bags larger than 13" x 17" must be checked at the museum’s north entrance lobby coat check.
- Library and archival material may not be removed from the premises. Personal materials are subject to search upon leaving.
- Anyone who removes materials from the Ingalls Library without authorization will lose all privileges and may be assessed a fine and any replacement costs of the material.
- Please turn off or silence your cell phone while using the library. Cell phones may be used in the library lounge on level 2.
- Food may not be brought into or consumed in the library. Beverages in a lidded travel container or water bottle may be consumed in the reading room and seminar room. Library computers may be used by registered library visitors for art research only.
- Library terminals are provided for short-term use limited to 30 minutes.
- Library visitors are expected to use personal laptop computers for long-term research and personal needs while in the library.
- The use of personal scanners is not allowed in the library. A book edge scanner is available for patron use in the reference room.
- Do NOT mark pages, use Post-It notes, or write on library materials.
In the Archives and Special Collections Reading Room
Materials from the Rare Book Collection or the Museum Archives are studied in the Archives and Special Collections Reading Room, located in the Ingalls Library, under the supervision of library staff. For a complete overview of applicable policies and procedures please consult the library's Guidelines on Studying Rare and Archives Collection Materials.
In the Museum Archives
- The museum archivist determines the collections that are available. Some archival collections are restricted or permanently closed to researchers.
- Researchers must request collections using call slips provided. Staff retrieve materials as needed and available.
- Researchers may use one box of records or one folder of oversized material at a time. Please return material to the Special Collections Reading Room attendant before requesting another box or folder.
- Do NOT mark pages, use Post-It notes, or write on archival materials.
- Researchers must use pencil for taking notes.
- Researchers may be asked to wear cotton gloves when handling certain types of materials.
- Materials MUST be kept in the order in which they are found within each box and folder.
- Reproduction of archival material is at the discretion of the archivist.
- All copies will be made by staff. Do not remove items to be copied. Instructions for flagging items to be copied will be provided. Copies are $0.25 each.
- Citations should acknowledge the Cleveland Museum of Art Archives and note the collection name, box number, folder title, and date.
- Archival and rare book materials are to be used in the Special Collections Reading Room during regular library hours.
Loss of Privileges
- Access to the Ingalls Library and Museum Archives is granted at the sole discretion of the library’s staff and such access may be denied or revoked at any time.
- Abuse of these regulations and policies will result in immediate withdrawal of all ID and password access privileges, loss of library privileges, and will be reported to the academic authorities or other appropriate authority.
- Visitors to the Ingalls Library and Museum Archives agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Cleveland Museum of Art, its officers, trustees, and employees from and against all claims or actions arising out of or related to such visitor’s (a) use of library or archived items; and (b) violation of this use agreement or any of the rules or procedures of the Ingalls Library or Museum Archives.