This page is designed to inform researchers of all levels of how the HSP library operates and how to more successfully conduct research here. 

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Below are links to essential information for visitors, including our Library & Photograph Policies. All first-time visitors must complete a Research Registration Form in order to use the Library. This form and other useful library forms, such as photocopy requests, can be found on the Registration and Forms Page.

For an in-depth guide on how to begin your research at HSP, and do everything from searching our Online Catalog Discover to filling out call-slips, visit our new Library 101 Guide.  You may also browse our Document Handling Guide to learn the best practices on handling historical documents during your visit.

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Security Statement

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We ask all researchers who use the Historical Society of Pennsylvania's collections to help preserve and protect these materials so that they will be available for future generations. Please note that public areas in the library are monitored by electronic surveillance. Theft or defacement of collection materials is a criminal offense. Any researcher who engages in theft or defacement of collection materials will have his/her library privileges suspended and may be prosecuted.
 

Start Your Research!

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If you are all ready to explore the HSP collection, click here for access to our online catalogue, Discover.

Information on our holdings can be found on our Collections page. 

To find out more about photo copies, photography, and rights & reproductions, or how to utilize our librarians and Research-by-Mail service, please reference our Library Services Page.

Please feel free to bring your computer; HSP will provide free wifi to library patrons.

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