Houghton Library

Houghton Library opened in 1942 to provide a dedicated home for Harvard Library’s rapidly growing collections of rare books and manuscripts. Since then, it has become known as a research center and a setting for hands-on learning and vibrant public programs. - Provide access to special collections - Perform reference and research consultations - Teach with primary sources - Acquire, catalog, process, and preserve rare books, manuscripts, archives, and more - Digitize collection materials to preserve and make them more widely accessible - Support research at Harvard and beyond through four fellowship programs - Organize and host dynamic public programs, including exhibitions, lectures, poetry readings, and symposia - Publish scholarly and literary journals: *Harvard Library Bulletin* and *Harvard Review* - Maintain an active national and international loan program - Conduct tours of the building every Friday