Herrick & Herrick

I had a productive day of research here and the staff were also so helpful more than any archive I’ve been to before…and that says a lot! Every archive/library operates so differently, but the process here is well organized. Definitely pack light because security at the front will make you check the rest of your bag in a locker. No pens allowed or water. You can bring your phone or laptop, but no photos! One of the librarians also examined a notebook I brought in before and after researching probably to make sure I’m taking stealing anything…I’m sure it’s happened before. The staff can also make up to 20 scans the same day for published material, the rest you have to request and it takes a few weeks. A tip would be to read about this before you go online to become familiar with the process! I was unsure about how the scans worked and all the rules/pricing, but luckily one of the ladies explained it to me. I hope to return back here in the coming months for my book research! I appreciate the librarians for all of their support.

Beside the fact that the archive is lovely and the staff are professional, they're also extremely kind. I forgot my phone on the Uber over, and a staff member gave me his phone to contact the driver, helped me reach him, and even walked me outside to make sure I got it. It really made my day.

Make an appointment in advance, someone will check your name at the door. Park at the tennis club next door, parking is free for the first 2 hours. No large bags allowed inside, there are free lockers for use to store your things. No pens allowed, only pencils. Must present vaccination status at the door. Bring an i.d. The library is not crowded at all since they're appointment-only. Cell phones and laptops are allowed but must be silenced.

Travel light, you will need to check in your cell phone and a leave that large bag at home. Very welcoming, open to the public and free! I was able to get professional assistant and instruction on how to locate my topic and operate the microfiche machine. I had used one long, long ago, and frankly they are fun. I spent hours scrolling through turn of the century 19th! newspaper and magazine articles. Its amazing if your looking for a needle in a haystack. The archives are indexed by name and cross referenced to all the archival material in the library. A great rabbit hole.

I have been to the library numerous times for study and although I live in Pittsburgh and not from Los Angeles I am always treated with respect and made to feel at home. Each member of the staff is courteous and capable wirth any request that is made. I know also Ms. Sandra Archer and am happy to say she is friend of mine. She is extremely cordial and is always willing to assist. Also the environemt is conducive to serious study and the grounds that surround the library including the structure are beautiful and quite pleasing to the eye. All the best to each meber of the staff!!