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About Special Collections
Special Collections Reading Room Neilson Library 307 7 Neilson Drive Northampton, MA 01063
413-585-2970
specialcollections@smith.edu
Welcome to Special Collections. We are open to Smith community members on a walk-in basis. We strongly encourage all visiting researchers to make an appointment 24 hours in advance.
Hours
Regular semester hours for the Special Collections Reading Rooms are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. See Hours to check the hours for specific days.
All visiting researchers are strongly encouraged to make an appointment to view materials in the Special Collections Reading Room. Visiting researchers will be required to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination to the reference desk staff upon arrival. Smith College defines full vaccination as receiving the primary vaccination course, plus a booster shot for those who are eligible, and two weeks have passed since receiving the last shot for which you are eligible. We expect that you will delay your visit if you are experiencing any COVID-like symptoms.
Please note that access to Neilson Library is subject to change as local and campus protocols change. Check the Smith College website for Library Services during COVID-19 before your visit for the most up-to-date information.
Book An Appointment
The Special Collections Reading Room is located on the third floor of Neilson Library. View the Smith College Campus Map for more information.
Special Collections Neilson Library 7 Neilson Drive, Northampton, MA
Directions from Neilson Library's Main Entrance Enter the front (east) entrance of Neilson Library that faces Seelye lawn, move into the first floor Central Hall and then turn right to locate the central elevator behind the staircase. Take this elevator to the third floor. Coming out of the elevator, turn right, then left and follow the signs to the Special Collections Reading Room.
General Parking Information Please use our visitor parking spaces around campus and in the parking garage, or seek City of Northampton parking options. Find parking on the campus map.
You may request a campus parking pass 48 hours (Monday through Friday) in advance of your visit from Facilities Management Customer Service. Please complete a request form and the pass will be emailed to you directly for you to print out. There is also metered parking available on Green Street. The meters accept quarters ($.75/per hour) or you can download the Northampton Parkmobile parking app and pay with a credit card.
A small portion of our materials are located off-site and require advance notice for retrieval. Some audiovisual materials without use copies also require advance notice to access due to specialty equipment or the need for reproduction prior to viewing/listening. This may cause a delay in your research. Please contact our staff at specialcollections@smith.edu to request off-site materials or with questions regarding audiovisual materials. Visit the Reading Room page for more information.
Special Collections is committed to ensuring equal access for all visitors. Researchers needing accommodations beyond what is listed below are welcome to contact our staff at specialcollections@smith.edu in advance of their visit.