Plan Your Visit

Before You Arrive

UW-Madison’s Special Collections does not require researchers to make appointments prior to visiting. Our staff will be happy to assist anyone who shows up during our operating hours!

There are a few steps you can take prior to your visit that might help smooth the process, however:

• Register for a Special Collections and Archives Account 
• Request materials you would like to see at least one full business day prior to your visit.
• If you’re a student, review your assignment and the Introduction to Special Collections module

Directions to Memorial Library

Memorial Library is located at 728 State Street, Madison, WI 53706. The building’s main entrance is near the corner of Lake Street and State Street, facing the pedestrian walkway (“Library Mall”) and the University Bookstore.

There are several parking options available near the library, but it may be easier to arrive via public transportation if possible.

Additionally, if you are visiting from out of town, the University offers many resources to help you plan your visit to campus.

Arriving at Special Collections

The Department of Special Collections is located on the 9th floor of Memorial Library. We welcome members of the University of Wisconsin community as well as visitors from near and far.

To enter Memorial Library, you will need either a valid UW-Madison ID, Community Borrowing, or University of Wisconsin System ID card. Visitors without the above identification are welcome to visit Memorial Library but must first obtain a day pass at the Welcome Desk near the library entrance on State Street. To obtain a day pass, you will be asked to present a current form of identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.).

There are additional options for visiting researchers who plan to make multiple visits to the library; please see Memorial Library’s access policy for more information.

To reach Special Collections on the 9th floor of Memorial Library, take elevator 5 (marked Special Collections and South Stacks) to floor 9R. Alternatively, take one of the bank of 3 elevators in Memorial Library to the 7th floor, take the stairs to the 9th floor, then follow the signs to Special Collections. If you have questions, please call Special Collections at 608-262-3243 or ask at the Circulation Desk on the 1st floor of Memorial Library.

Once you reach the 9th floor lobby, the exhibit area of Special Collections (976 Memorial Library) will be straight ahead; from the exhibit area, the Special Collections desk (980 Memorial Library) and reading room (986 Memorial Library) are visible to the right.

Note: the 9th floor lobby contains lockers where patrons can store coats, bags, food, drink, and other personal belongings. Please stow your belongings in one of these lockers if you are planning to visit the Reading Room (but remember to keep your ID with you so that we can check you in!). You are welcome to keep pencils, notebooks, laptops, and other research materials with you.