Get Answers, Gain Clarity: Explore Amistad’s FAQs
Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address common questions to assist you in understanding the Amistad Research Center’s services and guidelines.
Plan Your Visit
Visiting the Amistad Research Center
Absolutely! We offer curated tours showcasing specific collections from our archives. To schedule your personalized tour, contact the reference desk at (504-862-3217) or email us at reference@amistadresearchcenter.org.
The Amistad Research Center is located within Tilton Memorial Hall on Tulane University's Uptown campus at 6823 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118. Street parking is available nearby, but be sure to pay attention to posted restrictions. We recommend using public transportation or rideshare services due to limited on-site parking.
Research Appointments
The Amistad Research Center requires appointments for researchers. Our hours are:
- Monday-Tuesday & Thursday-Friday: 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Appointments ensure a productive research experience. Here's why:
- Offsite Collections: Many of our valuable archives are stored offsite. Scheduling a research appointment allows us to retrieve materials in advance for your visit.
- Limited Reading Room Space: Our reading room can accommodate a maximum of eight researchers. Appointments help us manage researcher flow and ensure everyone has a comfortable workspace.
Scheduling is easy! To schedule your research appointment, call the reference desk at (504-862-3217) or email us at reference@amistadresearchcenter.org. Be sure to mention your preferred date, group size, and any areas of particular interest. We'll work with you to find a suitable time and create a rewarding visit.
Additional Information
The Amistad Research Center observes major federal holidays. We also have adjusted hours during Mardi Gras (including closures on Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras) and during Tulane University's winter break (typically closing around December 23rd for two weeks). We recommend checking our website for current closure information before your visit.
Researching FAQs
General Questions
Our collection includes primary source materials like personal papers, unpublished documents, and historical records, alongside published works such as books, articles, and newspapers. We specialize in the history of African Americans, ethnic history, culture, and race relations in the United States.
We are actively digitizing our collection, but not everything is accessible online yet. You can explore finding aids and descriptions of collections through our website.
Using The Amistad Research Center For Research
We recommend following our 3-Step Guide to Searching the Amistad Research Center's Collection, which outlines using the Archives and Manuscripts Finding Aid Database for primary sources and Tulane University's Library Search for published works.
Yes, appointments are encouraged. Some restrictions on access to materials may exist, so we recommend contacting the Research Services Department to discuss your research needs and potentially schedule a visit.
Unfortunately, borrowing is not available due to preservation concerns.
Independent Archives
Independent archives are not affiliated with a university or government institution. They are typically non-profit organizations that rely on donations and grants to maintain their collections and provide access to researchers.
Independent archives often focus on specific historical topics or communities, offering a deeper and more specialized collection than larger institutions.
FAQs For The Amistad Research Center's Fine Art Collection
General Questions
Our Fine Art Collection encompasses a diverse range of visual art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, and mixed media works.
A limited number of works in the Fine Art Collection are available for viewing by appointment. Please contact the Amistad Research Center to schedule a visit.
Reproduction requests must be submitted in writing and are subject to copyright and usage restrictions. Please contact the Research Services Department for more information.
Research Questions
The Fine Art Collection is constantly being digitized and made searchable online. Additionally, researchers can explore the collection through our finding aids or by contacting the Research Services Department.
Access to the Fine Art Collection may be restricted for conservation purposes or due to copyright laws. Please contact the Research Services Department for more information.
Please contact the Research Services Department for more information.