Library

Library Collections

The Albany Institute of History & Art library is a special collections library with over one million items related to the art, history, and culture of the upper Hudson Valley from the seventeenth century to the present. Although library items do not circulate, researchers are welcome to study the collections in the library.

The library is currently open by appointment only from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Appointments must be arranged at least 3 days prior to visit, and may be requested via email or by calling the archivist/librarian at 518-463-4478, ext. 415. Please note: You do not have an appointment scheduled unless you have received confirmation in writing from the archivist/librarian.

Albany Institute of History & Art
125 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12210

Admission to library: $10 ($8 for students and seniors with ID); free to Albany Institute members. Admission to library not included with general museum passes.

Collections include almanacs, architectural renderings, bibles, books, ephemera, certificates and land deeds, manuscripts, maps, photographs, posters and broadsides, scrapbooks, and vertical files. Curatorial and library materials are frequently collected to support and document one another; together they provide a more nuanced picture of the Hudson Valley region over time.