Skip to main content
Research /

Ask A Librarian

Do you have questions about Folger collections, Shakespeare, or the early modern period? Below, we share some helpful resources where we recommend you start your search. You can also find a list of the reference services we offer and how to request them. If you need additional assistance, use our “Ask A Librarian” form at the bottom of the page. We typically respond within two weeks.

Resources

For questions about the Folger collection: Finding information online and using the collection in-person
For questions about Shakespeare: His life, his plays and poems, and the world he lived in
For questions about the Folger Shakespeare Library, its founders Henry and Emily Folger, and its history

Reference services

We offer the following reference services, free of charge. To request a service, please fill out the “Ask a Librarian” form below. We typically respond within two weeks.

An icon of a computer with a person on the screen and text coming from it

Reference interview

One-on-one reference assistance about your research topic, in person or virtual.

Icon of a computer with a file coming out of it

Intro to Folger resources

A brief introduction to resources that will help you make the most of your time at the Folger.

An icon of a computer screen with a book on it

Virtual Reading Room

A virtual appointment in which you can view rare materials remotely through a document camera. Some items may not be available to consult in the Virtual Reading Room due to size, condition, or accessibility.

An icon of a camera

Reference images

If there are only a handful of specific pages you need, we can take some reference-quality cell phone images. Due to the volume of requests and staff capacity, please limit your request to only a few pages. To request high-resolution images, please see Images and permissions.

Form

Please note that we typically respond within two weeks.