Research Archives

The Research Archives library of the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures is a non-circulating collection of books and other publications relating to the ancient Middle East and north Africa for the reference and research of ISAC faculty, staff, students, members, and authorized guests. Its materials span the history of the ancient world from prehistoric times through the Late Antique period and reflect the interests and work of its users and benefactors.

The Research Archives library includes the Elizabeth Morse Genius Reading Room, which was described by James Henry Breasted as "the most beautiful room in the building." It retains most of the original decorative elements and furnishings from when the building was completed in 1931. Of particular note are the lotus Window in the south wall, with its Egyptian-style design, the wood carvings on the north wall, and the elaborately painted ceiling. 

Overlooking the reading room is the gallery, which now houses the periodicals collection. In recognition of the generous support of the Elizabeth Morse Genius Trust, the Research Archives library reading room is named the Elizabeth Morse Genius Reading Room.

The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures has made a substantial commitment to complete the holdings of the Research Archives library in the fields represented by the scholarship of its faculty and staff. To this end, individual volumes and complete runs have been (and continue to be) purchased to complete our holdings in serial and periodical publications. With holdings of over 75,000 volumes, the Research Archives library is a unique resource for the study of the ancient cultures of West Asia and North Africa.