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Visitor Access

The Claremont Colleges Library welcomes visitors to explore our exhibits, attend events, study in open spaces and enjoy free (limited) guest Wi-Fi. Whether you’re stopping by Sanctuary Coffee or visiting regularly with a Community Card, the Library offers a place to learn and connect.

Open to the Public

Want to use the Library but not a student, faculty, alum or staff? We have something for you!

While we primarily support the students, faculty and staff of The Claremont Colleges, we also invite visitors to attend publicly accessible lectures and events, explore exhibits, make use of select borrowing privileges and get hands on with distinctive materials that spark discovery. Visitors may also enjoy the open study spaces and free (limited) guest Wi-Fi, stop by the Huntley bookstore, or relax with a cup of coffee in our café space from Sanctuary Coffee.

Frequent visitors may be eligible to apply for one of our Community Card options.

Access Options

Choose the option that best fits how you’d like to use the Library.

Visitors are welcome to explore exhibits, attend events or visit the Huntley Bookstore and Sanctuary Coffee, located on the first floor of the Library’s south side. No Community Card is required. Children must be accompanied at all times by an adult.

Upon arrival, please check in with a valid photo ID at the Main Services Desk (South Entrance) or the North Services Desk.

For visitors who plan to use the open Library spaces more frequently, the Community Access Card provides ongoing entry to the building. Please note that this does not include access to reservable spaces such as study rooms or conference rooms. Access is also subject to blackout dates during high-traffic times such as finals and the last week of classes.

Eligibility requirements apply — see the Community Access Card FAQ for details on how to qualify and what documentation to bring when you apply at the Main Services Desk at the South Entrance of the Library.

Upcoming Blackout Dates

  • Fall Semester 2025: November 30 – December 11
  • Spring Semester 2026: May 3 – 14

For visitors who wish to use library spaces and borrow materials, the Community Borrower Card offers both those privileges. Cards are issued either free or for an annual fee, depending on eligibility. Please note that this does not include access to reservable spaces such as study rooms or conference rooms. Access is also subject to blackout dates during high-traffic times such as finals and the last week of classes.

Eligibility requirements apply — see the Community Borrower Card FAQ for details on how to qualify and what documentation to bring when you apply at the Main Services Desk at the South Entrance of the Library.

Upcoming Blackout Dates

  • Fall Semester 2025: November 30 – December 11
  • Spring Semester 2026: May 3 – 14
Special Collections & Archives

Our Special Collections and Archives are open to everyone at no cost, with visits available by appointment. Visitors are encouraged to contact the Special Collections & Archives team to request materials or schedule an in-person viewing of our rare and unique holdings.

Discover rare books, archives and artifacts — book your visit now.

Schedule a Visit
Visiting Groups & Programs

Groups from The Claremont Colleges and community organizations are welcome to visit the Library for orientation tours, information literacy instruction or general access. To request a visit, you will be asked to complete a request form based on your group type.

Find the online forms in the Group Visit FAQ.

Questions?

Do you have questions about preparing for your visit to the library or about one of our community cards? Let us know!

Ask Us