The Mary R. Schiff Library & Archives

Open Thursday–Friday, 2d Saturday (September-June)

11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Founded in 1881, the Mary R. Schiff Library has an extensive collection of over 100,000 items spanning 6,000 years of human artistic creativity, including decorative arts, fashion, and photography. The collection includes books, reference resources, periodicals, ephemera files, auction catalogs, and online databases. The library also has a unique assortment of materials on Cincinnati art and artists. Library staff is happy to help if you are looking for information on artists in the museum’s collection or in your own collection.

To protect the health and safety of visitors and staff, reading room capacity is limited, and making an appointment will ensure that you can visit at your desired day/time. If you prefer not to come in person, we are able to answer many queries by email or telephone.

To ask a question or request an appointment email [email protected] or call 513-639-2978. Please provide details about the information you are trying to find or the resources you would like to use.

Please note: The library’s shelves are not available to browse at present, and all books and resources must be requested from the reference librarian. Materials are quarantined for 96 hours after use.

The library is located on the third floor of the Longworth Wing (the former Art Academy building). You can enter through the museum, or via the Castellini entrance (in front of the Pinocchio sculpture) where there is direct access to the library by elevator. All visitors to the museum have their temperature taken on arrival and masks are required. For more information on the museum’s health and safety procedures, please visit: cincinnatiartmuseum.org/visit

View the Online Catalog

(Select Location: Cincinnati Art Museum Library)

Please note that all materials are for use in the library only and may not be checked out.

Take our library survey

Contact Information

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (513) 639-2978