Samuel P. Hayes Research Library

NEW! – Search the Research Library’s Online Catalog

The world of information at your fingertips.

The Samuel P. Hayes Research Library, founded in 1880, is a resource for researchers, the Perkins community, professionals, parents and the public. The Library offers the largest and most comprehensive collection on the nonmedical aspects of blindness and deafblindness that is available to the public. Explore the library’s card catalog of more than 40,000 books, pamphlets, journal articles, newspaper clippings, dissertations, conference reports, multimedia materials, and websites.

The materials do not circulate, but visitors are welcome to conduct research at the library. Many documents are freely downloadable on the web, and you’ll find the internet address in the Full Record display.

Click here to search the Research Library’s online card catalog.

If you have difficulties with the screen display, try increasing your screen resolution. For any questions please email us at Jan.Seymour-Ford@perkins.org or call 617 972-7250.

What kind of information does the Research Library have?

• Researchers will find historical and archival materials relating to education and services for people who are blind, visually impaired, or deafblind.
• If you are participating in the National History Day Contest, the Research Library has compiled a document of primary and secondary resources on Helen Keller, Anne Sullivan Macy, and Louis Braille. Download this document as an accessible PDF.
• Some information has been tailored for parents and kids.
• Teachers can find resources for both disability awareness and for instructing students who have disabilities.
• Resource packets, including one about Laura Bridgman, the first deafblind woman to be educated in the U.S., are available by request or download.
• The frequently asked questions section offers general information.
• The New Acquisitions listing changes several times a year.