Hirsch Library FAQ
Our committed team of information professionals are available to answer your questions in person four days a week, with phone and email service on Mondays and Tuesdays. Below you will find answers to some frequently asked questions.
Using the Library
Who can use the Hirsch Library?
The libraries of the MFAH provide information services to anyone interested in visual arts research.
What's the difference between the Hirsch Library and the Powell Library?
Hirsch Library serves as the MFAH’s primary research facility with an encyclopedic visual arts collection covering antiquities to modern and contemporary art. Situated on the Fayez S. Sarofim Campus, the Hirsch Library is located on the lower level of the Audrey Jones Beck Building.
The Kitty King Powell Library serves as the research entity for Bayou Bend Collections and Gardens, encompassing American decorative and fine arts from the colonial era to the late-19th century. The Kitty King Powell Library and Study Center is located in the Lora Jean Kilroy Visitor and Education Center at Bayou Bend.
When can I come to Hirsch Library?
We are open to the public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday; Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and 12 noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, with phone and email service available on Monday and Tuesday. Appointments are not necessary. We are closed most major holidays.
Do I have to pay an admission fee to use the Library?
Visiting the Hirsch Library is always free.
What do I do upon arrival?
Sign in at the information services desk and use one of our computer terminals to search our online catalog, or chat with us to consult with one of our reference librarians.
Museum Collection
How do I find out more about a work of art in the MFAH?
The art and news sections of the MFAH website feature information about the MFAH art collections and exhibitions. Research guides provide additional information on some of our most popular works of art, in addition to art research tips.
How do I find out if a specific work of art is on view?
Check the Museum’s online collections database, which indicates if a work of art is on view or not. If you wish to find out more information about an artwork’s location, contact the reference desk by email, by phone, or in person, and a member of the library staff will tell you which building and gallery you can view the work of art.
Library Collections
What kind of research materials do you offer?
The Hirsch Library contains an expanding collection of 200,000 published materials on art, art history, and cultural context that complement the Museum’s art collections. This includes art books, exhibition catalogs, artist books, museum publications, artist files, art journals, periodicals, art databases, special collections, rare books, DVDs and more.
How can I search for materials that you offer?
Simply search the library catalog! Use search tips and examples for best results.
What electronic resources do you offer?
We provide access to a broad range of digital resources dedicated to visual arts. These include subscription databases and links to online dictionaries, encyclopedias, style manuals, books, periodicals, newspapers, online news, local library catalogs, national library catalogs, and more.
What does the message “In use: Request at desk” mean in your library catalog?
Due to institutional research needs, some items may be in use by Museum staff on campus. Book recall requests can be made in advance. Please ask for assistance at the information services desk.
Am I allowed to view and handle special collections materials?
You can search the library catalog for special collections and rare materials, which may require special handling, washing of hands, use of gloves, and book cradles.
Can I place library materials on hold?
Of course! Please ask one of the librarians at the information services desk, or contact us via phone or email with the items you’d like for us to hold.
Can I check materials out from the library?
We are a non-circulating library, so all materials must remain in our reading room.
How do I keep the information if I can’t check out a book?
Scanning, printing, and non-flash photography of collection materials are permitted as self-service options.
Library Services
What kind of equipment do you offer?
Black & white and color printer, scanners, microfilm reader, phone chargers, and public computers are available at no charge.
May I charge my phone in the library?
Yes, just ask at the public service desk for a phone charger.
Do you have internet access?
Absolutely. You can use the Museum’s free Wi-Fi or use one of our four public terminals.
May I make photocopies of library materials?
Printed pages and photocopies cost 10¢ for each black & white copy and 50¢ for each color copy. Only cash payments are accepted.
Researchers must observe copyright laws when making and using copies.
May I print things out, such as school assignments or City Pass?
Yes! Black & white copies can be printed from any of the computer terminals. For color copies, see a library staff member at the Public Service Desk.
The first four printed pages are free, and each additional printed/photocopied page costs 10¢ for black & white and 50¢ for color. Only cash payments are accepted.
Researchers must observe copyright laws when making and using copies.
May I take photographs of portions of your library materials?
Yes, you may photograph portions of most materials. However, flash photography is prohibited. Researchers must observe copyright laws when making reproductions.
Is there a place to just hang out and read?
Absolutely! You can relax in our air-conditioned reading room or sit outside in the Susan Clayton Garwood Courtyard.
May I bring my coffee or lunch into the reading room?
Food and drinks are prohibited in the reading room. However, food and drink are welcomed in the Susan Clayton Garwood Courtyard.
Art Inquiries
How do I find out more information about a work of art I own?
The Smithsonian American Art Museum provides some helpful guidance: Art Research FAQ
Appraisal and Conservation
How do I have a work of art appraised or conserved?
For art appraisals:
Museum personnel do not appraise works of art or recommend individual appraisers because of a potential conflict of interest. However, to locate an appraiser that matches your needs, call or visit the websites of the following professional associations:
ASA American Society of Appraisers
ISA International Society of Appraisers
While an initial discussion may be complimentary, appraisers charge for their services. Consider researching similar objects before hiring an appraiser. For your use, the Hirsch Library subscribes to auction databases that indicate current market values. In addition, contact the reference desk for help with your research.
Personal art objects are not allowed in the Museum or the library. However, you may bring photographs, sketches, or other documentation to aid your research.
Local branches of auction houses include:
Simpson Galleries, Auctioneers of Fine Art & Antiques
For art conservation:
The procedure for selecting professionals to preserve, conserve, or restore objects of art is similar to that of choosing an appraiser. Members of the Hirsch Library staff recommend contacting or visiting the website of the following professional association:
AIC American Institute for Conservation of Historic & Artistic Works
Donations
How can I donate to the Hirsch Library?
We welcome financial contributions, donations of gifts, and book donations, all of which help build our collections. You may also honor a loved one by funding a book from our wish list or donating a book from your collection. You’ll receive a personalized book plate and credit lines in our online catalog. All gifts are tax-deductible. If you are interested in making a donation, please contact our chief librarian.
How can I volunteer at the Hirsch Library?
We are frequently looking for book enthusiasts and champions of learning who enjoy donating their time and individual skills through volunteering! If you are interested in making a difference in your community through service, volunteer today by contacting us.