Library & Archives

H.H. Mu Far Eastern Library

The H.H. Mu Far Eastern Library was founded in 1933 by Bishop William C. White. It was the first major Canadian resource for researchers and others studying the arts and archaeology of Asia. The H.H. Mu Far Eastern Library is now the most important library in Canada uniquely devoted to the arts of the Orient.

The collections include books on the arts and archaeology of East Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. The library also has books on related subjects such as history, geography, numismatics, science, religion, social life and customs and even sports.

The H.H. Mu Far Eastern Library is the also the service point for library collections on the Near East & Egypt and West Asia. The general public may visit during library hours.

Catalogue & Circulation

Online Catalogue

The holdings of the H. H. Mu Far Eastern Library are included in the online catalogue for the University of Toronto Libraries.

Please take note of the entire call number, the holdings (which lists the libraries that have a particular title and where in the library the item is located) and the location (which notes if the book is in the library or available on 24-hour request). These locations are critical to easily locate the item. Make a habit of noting location together with the call number. You may call ahead 416.586.5718 or e-mail fe.library@rom.on.ca to make sure that the materials are available for your use.

Please Note: For certain materials the location may read "Available upon request - 24 hours" or "Checked out until 2007". These books are located in the curatorial departments within the Museum and can be easily retrieved in most cases. Please call ahead to have these books held for you in the H. H. Mu Far Eastern Library.

Circulation
The H.H. Mu Far Eastern Library is a reference library; the collections are non-circulating. The main stacks are closed to the public; retrieval requests have to be made. Reference questions on subjects covered by the H.H. Mu Far Eastern Library can be addressed to the librarian in person, by e-mail fe.library@rom.on.ca, or fax 416.586.5877. Telephone messages (416.586.5718, ext. 2) can also be left. Books can also be requested through the Main Library for reading in the Sackler Reading Room.

Graduate students at an Ontario university may register to have the access privileges of a Special Graduate Student. Please inquire at the Library Desk for details.

Contact

Tel: 416.586.5718
Fax: 416.586.5877
E-mail: fe.library@rom.on.ca

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reading room in H.H. Mu Far Eastern Library.