Hours

Please consult the main hours page for current open hours. After 7pm, all entrances to Perkins Library are open via card access only.

Getting Started

When you arrive at the Rubenstein Library, you will be asked to share some information about yourself and your research.

1. Complete a Registration & Research Agreement Form and show a photo ID. We do not require a letter of recommendation or other academic credentials.
2. Sign in at our daily register so that we have a record of your visit.
3. Consult with the Rubenstein's research services staff about your research interests so that we can help direct you to the most relevant materials. You may also consult with staff prior to your visit.

If you have not requested materials in advance of your visit, you may request books, manuscripts, and other materials upon arrival. Our staff members retrieve requested materials regularly throughout the day. Materials housed at the Library Service Center take approximately 24 hours to retrieve during regular business hours.

NOTICE: All Rubenstein Library materials will be changing locations during 2012 in preparation for renovation and may be temporarily unavailable. Please contact Rubenstein Library staff before visiting to use collections.

Where are you located?

Driving directions and parking

Directions to:

• Biddle Rare Book Room
• Breedlove Room
• Perkins Room 118
• Dalton-Brand Reading Room (103 Perkins)

In the Reading Room

• Rubenstein Library materials must be used in the reading room and do not circulate.
• You may take in paper, note cards, a pencil, a digital camera, and/or a laptop computer without a case.
• Food and drink—including water bottles—are not permitted. 
• We have a secure locker room and locks for your personal belongings.
• Materials taken into the reading room will be inspected by the desk staff when you exit the room. 
• Please make sure that your hands are clean before you handle any materials.
• Duke provides free wireless service for visitors. More information is available on the Duke OIT website.
• Cell phones are permitted in the reading room, provided they are turned to silent or vibrate; users must leave the reading room to make or answer any calls.
• A self-service photocopier in the reading room may be used to copy material that is flat and not too fragile.  Decisions about whether you may copy archival material are made by a Research Services staff member. The photocopier takes coins, $1.00 bills, copy cards, and Duke Card Flex. For more information, see the Copiers and Copy Card page.
• The Rubenstein Library provides other reproduction options including photocopying, scanning, and digitization for a fee.
• The reading room is monitored by security cameras at all times.