Research
The materials held at the Folger Shakespeare Library are meant to be actively used; Henry Folger once called the collection “a fine kit of tools for scholars.”
Renovation update
Although our Reading Room is currently closed due to a major building renovation project, we remain committed to assisting researchers in their work. The Reading Room will reopen along with the rest of the building in 2024.
Please reach out to us at reference@folger.edu if there is any research or reference support we can provide during this time, and at institute@folger.edu if you have questions about our ongoing scholarly programs and fellowships. For updates about the Reading Room reopening, subscribe to our Research Bulletin newsletter
Ask a Librarian
Need assistance with navigating the Folger’s collection? Get in touch with one of our librarians with our Ask a Librarian form. Our librarians are happy to assist you.
Folger Institute
The Folger Institute advances collections-focused research in the early modern humanities. Through its multi-disciplinary programs and inquiry-driven research fellowships, the Institute establishes cutting-edge scholarly communities, sponsors innovative research approaches, and develops new teaching agendas for early modern fields.
Use the library
The Folger welcomes anyone to research with us. Although our Reading Room is currently closed for our building renovation, we have many digital resources available to assist our researchers. The Reading Room reopens in 2024.
About our collections
The Folger’s collection is vast and varied, including printed books; manuscripts; prints, drawings, photographs, paintings, and other works of art; and a wealth of performance history, from playbills to films, recordings, and stage costumes.
Featured research projects and initiatives
The Folger Shakespeare Library sponsors collaborative, cutting-edge research informed and inspired by our world-class collections. We encourage everyone to explore, build upon, and engage with our work.
Images and permissions
The Folger’s Imaging team creates high-quality digital images of books, manuscripts, and art in the Library’s collections. As items are photographed, the images are made available in our digital image collection.
Online resources
Find information about our catalog and digital image collection, as well as our Finding Aid Database, Early Modern Manuscripts Online, and other resources.
Shakespeare Quarterly
Shakespeare Quarterly (SQ) is a leading journal in Shakespeare studies, publishing highly original, rigorously researched essays, notes, and book reviews. Published for the Folger Shakespeare Library by Oxford University Press (OUP), SQ is peer-reviewed and very selective.
