The MIT Libraries' primary purpose is to support the teaching, research, and scholarly activities of the MIT community. Access to some resources and services is restricted to members of the MIT community. It is the policy of the MIT Libraries to provide access for all categories of users to open stack collections, government document depository collections, and the Institute Archives.
Visitors are welcome to use the libraries, although some restrictions apply during exam periods.
Individuals without MIT library borrowing privileges must register at the circulation desk of the library they are using. Document Services also lends MIT Libraries materials to libraries and businesses. Circulation restrictions apply. No MIT affiliation is needed to use these services. All patrons are requested to make appointments to consult archival and manuscript materials.