AKC Library and Archives
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 and has grown to include AKC Administrative records and personal collections of prominent individuals 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.
AKC Library at the Museum of the Dog
The AKC Library at the Museum of the Dog includes the bulk of our collection on individual breeds as well as children’s literature and other dog-specific topics in art, history, photography, training, sport, military and police work, and more. A display case within the Museum Library features a rotation of objects from the Library & Archives that support current Museum exhibitions and programs.
Hours:
The Museum Library is open to visitors on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11am-6pm. Visitors can use the Museum entrance and are expected to adhere to the Museum’s Ticketing and Admission Policies.
Please note that last admission is at 5pm and the third floor gallery closes at 5:30pm. The Museum is closed on certain holidays. Please check the calendar for the most up to date closures.
AKC Archives
The AKC Archives holds the administrative and historical records of the American Kennel Club, its member clubs, and the personal papers of individuals who have played a prominent role in the dog fancy.
Hours:
The archival collections are open to visiting researchers on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10am-3:30pm, by appointment only.
To request a research appointment, please use this form.
Remote researchers may search our library collection and explore our archival database online.
Pedigree & registration requests
All pedigree requests and registration-related inquiries should first be directed to the AKC Registration and Customer Service department at info@akc.org or 919-233-9767. If additional resources are required, Registration or Customer Service will contact the Library & Archives on your behalf.
Follow @akclibrary on Instagram to see treasures from our collections!
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