Library Services
Research Assistance
Our small team of librarians field research questions from across the globe. Inquiries are handled in the order they are received. Because of the high volume of inquiries, our team can respond to up to two requests per person each month. To submit a research question, please use the Library’s contact form.
Access Assistance
Having trouble finding a specific book or resource? Our librarians can help you locate natural history materials.
Self-service Copy and Scanning
Museum staff, students, and public visitors are welcome to use the Library’s overhead scanner to copy pages from books and journals from the main collection. Scans can be saved to a USB drive or sent as an email attachment. The scanner is located near the Reading Room and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Collaborative Collection Development
Are you an author or small publisher developing books related to natural history or museum studies? Would you like your publication to reach more libraries?
The Library is actively expanding its collection of scholarly works in biological, geological, and cultural sciences, as well as environmental studies, museum studies, and informal education. If you believe your publication could be a good fit, please contact us.
Interlibrary Loan
Borrowing Information
Borrowing privileges are reserved for Field Museum staff and badge holding affiliates who are registered users of the Library. More information on how to request a loan can be found on the library’s Libguides.
Lending Information
Lending requests are welcomed from the libraries of museums, universities, and research institutions worldwide. Requests should be submitted from libraries (not individuals) via OCLC WorldShare Interlibrary Loan.*
Please note:
- Loans are for in-library use only and may not be checked out to the patron.
- We are unable to serve public libraries for interlibrary loan.
- The following materials will not be loaned: rare books, reference items, archive collections, and any materials considered too large or fragile.
*While we cannot loan physical materials directly to individuals, independent scholars who are not affiliated with an institution may be able to arrange access to scanned articles or book chapters. Those interested should email ill@fieldmuseum.org to discuss available options.
Fees
Content is provided free of charge to most Illinois academic, research, and state libraries, as well as all IELC and BHL partner libraries.
Outside of Illinois:
- Physical loans: $30 plus shipping costs
- Copies: $20 for the first 10 pages, and $0.25 for every page over 10.
Loans are sent to libraries via FedEx or Illinois Library Delivery Service (ILDS). Copies are scanned and sent as PDFs via email.