Although the Brown libraries are primarily for use by members of the Brown community, we strive to support scholarly research by making our spaces and resources reasonably accessible. There are many ways for visitors to engage with the Brown’s collections online or in-person.
Visitors Outside of Brown
Building Spaces Open to the Public
John Hay Library
Visitors without Brown IDs may visit the John Hay Library, a Carnegie Library, for quiet study or to view exhibits and special collections materials. To view materials, you must register for an account, request material in advance, and make a viewing appointment. See Visiting Special Collections for instructions and details.
Sciences Library Lobby
Visitors are welcome on the first floor of the Sciences Library. A Brown ID is required to access other floors.
Events and Exhibits
Visitors without current Brown IDs are welcome to attend events and exhibits that are open to the public during the time of the event and during regular building hours for exhibits. Please check in with service desk staff to request entry for these purposes.
Open Online Resources
Explore the Library’s online resources which are open to all users:
The BDR holds images, data sets, publications, collections, and other content in a browsable and searchable format.
Dive into the freely accessible portfolio of Brown University Digital Publications, which is setting the standard for the future of scholarship in the digital age through pathbreaking, multimodal, born-digital online publications.
Experience the history and future of digital humanities on the Center for Digital Scholarship’s portfolio page.
Access Types for Affiliated and Consortium Visitors
Access to the Brown Library is accorded to many affiliated users and members of our consortial partner institutions.
Brown University Library Card
Individuals with a credible research need may purchase a library card for certain uses over a specified period of time at the following rates:
- Building access only: $75 for one year
- Borrowing: $400 for one year
Borrowing cards may be used for borrowing Brown Library material only. Other restrictions may apply. A valid picture ID must be presented to purchase an access or borrowing card. Email rock@brown.edu for more information.