Archives

The SFMOMA Research Library and Archives will be temporarily closed to external researchers due to the upcoming expansion of our building.

The Archives will be closed to external researchers beginning December 15, 2012 through early 2016.

SFMOMA will present a dynamic range of off-site exhibitions and programs while the expansion is under way, but we regret that the SFMOMA Library and Archives will not be able to provide on-site or remote research access to its holdings during this time.

Overview

Archivist at work
 
Poster for Space for Living
Poster for Space for Living: An Exhibition of Planning and Architecture, 1940; Exhibition Records, SFMOMA Archives

The SFMOMA Archives collects and preserves past institutional records of enduring value. It is the primary source of information relating to the museum's history, encompassing exhibitions, activities, and events; our interactions with significant artistic figures and organizations; and our role as a vital advocate for contemporary art on the West Coast.

We have provided a number of online finding aids to assist researchers in using our holdings. We also offer additional collection indexes and guides to archival materials for consultation onsite at the museum.

Hours

The Archives will be closed to external researchers beginning December 15, 2012 through early 2016.

Appointments are available during weekdays through December 15 by written application. Please address all correspondence and email to the Head of the Library and Archives.

By mail: 151 Third St., San Francisco, CA, 94103
By email: archives@sfmoma.org

Access and Policies

Archives collections are available for research to graduate students, university and college faculty, professional artists, collectors, art historians, staff of other museums and art galleries, and independent researchers. Please read the Archives Access Policy (PDF) for additional information.

In order to access the archives, please print and submit our Application for Access (PDF). We ask that you pay careful attention to the conditions of use outlined in the document, as researchers must agree to abide by them.

We welcome published references to documents from our archives, provided that researchers follow our guide to citing archival materials (PDF).