The climate control in the library can be extreme, especially in summer (when it can be freezing inside!) Researchers are advised to dress in layers and include a warm jacket or sweater.

We allow photography of most materials, so you may wish to bring a digital camera or use your cell phone camera.

Swarthmore College encourages persons with disabilities to visit our spaces. If you have any accessibility or mobility needs for accommodations, please let us know.

Use this page from the Swarthmore College website to find an interactive campus map, a printable map [PDF], and online campus tours, including a page devoted to the Libraries.

While the College does not provide Library and Special Collections specific information once you've arrived on campus, the Driving Directions are useful.

Learn about the options from train stations, the airport and other options here.

Explore the many lodging options here. Visitors to Friends Historical Library may be especially interested in knowing about staying at Pendle Hill, a Quaker Retreat Center a five minute drive from campus.

The most convenient option is the campus Dining Center, which includes a full service dining hall while classes are in session, and "Essie's Corner" snack bar year round. Essie's offers made-to-order sandwiches and grain bowls, plus a selection of snacks and prepared items. (Note that the two coffee bars on campus, in Kohlberg and Science Center, are keycard-access only, limited to the campus community.)

There are also numerous dining options in the Swarthmore town center near the train station, less than a 10-minute walk away. 

The Visitor Parking information on the Swarthmore College website outlines several options. It will help to know that McCabe Library is located directly adjacent to the Scott Arboretum, and so following directions to that location will get you very close to Special Collections. Additionally, there are several accessible parking spaces available very near the Library and beside the Rose Garden.