The Folger Shakespeare Library welcomes researchers (known here as "readers") from across the United States and around the world. To apply for reading privileges, please select the category that best reflects your needs and submit your application materials to registrar@folger.edu. All applicants
must show a current government-issued photo I.D. on arrival.
If applying by mail, please address correspondence to:
The Librarian
c/o The Registrar
Folger Shakespeare Library
201 East Capitol St. SE
Washington, DC 20003
Regular Readers
Regular readers are generally full-time academic faculty, librarians, curators, or individuals pursuing doctoral or post-doctoral research.
Learn more about qualifications and how to apply for a Regular Reader card here.
Academic Programs Participants
Participants in academic programs sponsored by the Folger may apply for reading privileges.
Learn more about qualifications and how to apply for a Academic Program Participant Reader card here.
Special-Permission Readers
Undergraduate students, graduate students not yet at the doctoral level, educators, theater professionals, and other individuals may also access the Folger collections.
Learn more about qualifications and how to apply for a Special-Permission Reader card here.
