How to Read Rare Books

Eligibility:

Anyone wanting to read materials held by the Toyo Bunko for the purpose of studying the history and culture of Asia. Personal identification or Toyo Bunko library card required.

Application Deadline:

Submit application documents two business days before the date you would like to read rare books. * For example, if you wish to read materials on Monday, please apply for eligibility by Friday since we are closed on Sundays.

Application Document:

Please submit the following information in your application to read rare books. Make sure to send your full name, job title, address, desired material (including call number), purpose, date, and contact information such as telephone, fax, and email.

The number of books you can reserve with a single application is limited to 5 titles (25 books) or fewer. If you are accompanied by another person, you must also document that person's name, affiliation, and job title. You cannot alter your application on the day of your visit, so please be careful to submit all necessary documents in advance.

Application Method:

Please submit applications at Toyo Bunko's Reading Counter, on the Library Contact Form web page, by fax, or by postal mail. If you apply by post, make sure your documents arrive no later than the application deadline. Please note that applications are not accepted by telephone. After receiving an application to read materials, we will respond as soon as possible with information.

Visiting the Reading Room:

Please make sure to bring an ID card or a card issued by Toyo Bunko. For details on the latter, please click here.

Making Copies:

Please apply for special permission to make photocopies. For details, please click here.

For questions or concerns, please contact us at the address below.


Address:

Toyo Bunko (The Oriental Library), Library Service Section, Reading Room Service Staff
2-28-21 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku,Tokyo 113-0021, Japan
Phone: +81-3-3942-0122
Fax: +81-3-3942-0120