The AKC maintains one of the largest libraries devoted to dogs in the world, containing approximately 15,000 volumes, and the only national repository dedicated to the sport and enjoyment of the purebred dog. It has been providing internal and external reference on all manners of dog-related inquiries since 1934.
committee chair Edwin Megargee.
The AKC Archives began in 1998 as a service to AKC national breed clubs. Since then, it has grown to include AKC Administrative records, and personal collections of prominent men and women in the sport.
The AKC Library & Archives holdings also include a complete run of the AKC Gazette and other bound periodicals, Stud Books, AKC-licensed dog show catalogs (1877-1983), art, literature, juvenile books, stamps, bookplates, scrapbooks, and vertical files of clippings, magazine articles, and photographs. The collection boasts such rare books as Johannes Caius’s De Canibus Britannicis, published in 1570; Cynographia Britannica by Sydenham Edwards, published in 1800; and the personal libraries of renowned fanciers John Cross, the Shearer sisters, Alva Rosenberg, and more.
Collections are open to all researchers, who may search our book holdings and explore our archival database online. Contact the Archivist with any inquiries* or appointment requests.
A quarter of the library collection is now available for viewing within the AKC Museum of the Dog. A display case within this space features rotating exhibitions of AKC Library & Archives collection highlights. Currently on view through September 8 is “Bannister Babies and Pet Pin-Ups,” exploring the life and career of the famous 1940s and 1950s photographer Constance Bannister. Click here to read our exhibition notes.
For all research inquiries*, research appointment requests, general questions or comments, please use this form.
*All dog pedigree requests and related inquiries to dogs registered in the last three decades, should be first directed to the AKC Registration and Customer Service department at info@akc.org or 919-233-9767.
Follow @akclibrary on Instagram to see treasures from our collections!
Links
- Library Catalog
- Guide to Archival Collections
- Archives Procedures
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Digital Library & Archives
