The Edward P. Taylor Research Library & Archives is located on the concourse level of the Chalmers Wing. Proceed directly from the Gallery's main entrance to the concourse level and follow the wayfinding.
To access the library during the extended hours available to OCAD affiliates, you must acquire an AGO Library Affiliate photo ID badge, issued by AGO Protection Services. To register for your badge, make an appointment with the reference desk by sending us an email with the subject heading Request for Library Affiliate Badge. Send your request to Library_Archives@ago.net).
Your AGO Library Affiliate photo ID, enables you to access the concourse level and the main entrance of the Research Library. It will be valid for the current academic year, from September to August. It is your responsibility to renew it on a timely basis. The badge does not give you access to the galleries, or any ticketed space. No retail discounts or privileges are available with this card. The card is non-transferable.
OCAD Faculty and Graduate Student Hours and Access
Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4:45 pm
Coats, backpacks, umbrellas, etc., are not permitted in the Library. Use the coat-check service in the Maxine Granovsky & Ira Gluskin Hall ($1 for non-members, free for members), or the coat rack outside the library entrance.
Pens are not allowed in the library. Pencils can be purchased from the reference desk for $ 1.00.
Laptops may be brought into the library. The main reading room is equipped with floor electrical outlets. Please note that at the present time the library does not provide wireless internet access. There are three computer workstations in the general reference area for public use.
Library Collections
Collections do not circulate.
It is strongly recommended that users check the Library’s holdings in advance of visiting. See the Online library catalogue.
You may request books to be put on hold before your arrival. Use the “My List” function that is part of the library catalogue search program, and email your completed list and name to Library_Archives@ago.net.
It is also advisable to use the “My List” function for materials that must be requested in advance. These are Rare Book collections (identified in the catalogue by R.B., R. B. Pamph, R. B. Folio, and R. B. Folio Oversize), and Archives and Special Collection.
The general collections stacks are accessible during office hours.
Please note that the online catalogue does not represent our entire collection. Additional book holdings are recorded in the card catalogue, available onsite only.
Special collections and institutional archives
A complete listing of Special Collections holdings is available online and includes a selection of individual finding aids in PDF format.
Use of the Special Collections is by appointment only. For further information or to make an appointment, contact Amy Furness, Special Collections Archivist:
By telephone: 416 979 6660 x356
By email: Amy_Furness@ago.net
Use of the institutional archives is also by appointment only. Printed finding aids are available onsite for most Gallery records. For further information or to make an appointment, contact Larry Pfaff, Head, Reader Services:
By telephone: 416 979 6660 x341
By email : Larry_Pfaff@ago.net
Regulations for Researchers
Before your first visit, please consult the Regulations For Researchers.
Photocopying
Personal photocopy cards can be purchased at the library information desk for a minimum of $ 20.00.
Photographic Resources
For AGO collection images, please contact Photographic Resources:
By telephone: 416 979 6660 x499
By email: Sean_Weaver@ago.net
