What does a ticket to LACMA include?

Admission includes access to the entire museum and all current exhibitions
 

Do I need a ticket to visit LACMA galleries?

All visitors must purchase or reserve timed-entry tickets. Tickets are available at lacma.org/gettickets or on-site at the Ticket Office during regular museum hours. Ticket inquiries may be sent to @email or by phone at 323 857-6010 Mondays through Fridays from 10 am to 5 pm.


How do I access my tickets purchased online? 

A confirmation email that includes your QR code will be sent a few minutes following your transaction. If you do not see the confirmation email in your inbox, please check your spam folder. Do not hesitate to reach out to @email with any questions.
 

I am a LACMA member. Do I need to reserve tickets in advance?

Tickets are available for LACMA members at the Ticket Office without timed-entry reservations. Members may also reserve timed-entry tickets online in advance. Members may also email @email or call 323 857-6151, Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm.
 

What time should I arrive at LACMA for my reservation?

Please arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled entry time.
 

I am running late for my reservation time. Is there a grace period for entry?

Please arrive within 15 minutes of your reservation time. Ticket sales are final and non-refundable. Please contact the Ticket Office at @email for additional information.
 

Where do I check in upon arrival?

Check-in is on the Smidt Welcome Plaza.
 

I don’t feel well and have to cancel my trip to LACMA. Can I rebook my visit for another day?

Yes, please email @email to reschedule your visit. If you’re a LACMA member, please contact @email for any ticketing needs.
 

What are Levitated Mass’s hours?

Michael Heizer’s Levitated Mass is open to the public every day of the week from sunrise to sunset. The work is closed when it is raining.
 

What are Urban Light’s hours?

Chris Burden’s Urban Light is turned on each day at dusk and turned off at dawn, according to an astronomical timer. The installation is always open for visitors. You can also visit isurbanlighton.com to see the current illumination status.
 

What are Hancock Park’s hours?

LACMA is located in Hancock Park, in 30 acres situated at the center of Los Angeles, which also contains the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. The park is open 6 am to 10 pm.

The pedestrian gate on the corner of Fairfax Avenue and 6th Street is open 6 am to sunset every day. The other pedestrian gate, off 6th Street, is open 10 am to 9 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays; 10 am to 11 pm on Fridays; and closed on Wednesdays. (Please note that some special events may affect hours and access.)
 

Are water fountains available?

Indoor water fountains have been turned off based on guidance from state and county public health officials. A water bottle filling station is located on the Zev Yaroslavsky Plaza near the north Pritzker Parking Garage stairs.
 

I am a member and I purchased the Parking Pass upgrade. Where do I validate my parking?

Members with a current Parking Pass upgrade on their account may visit the Ticket Office during regular museum hours or when attending a museum program or event to receive validated parking.
 

Where is the Lost and Found?

LACMA's Lost and Found is located at the Ticket Office on the Smidt Welcome Plaza. Inquiries may be emailed to @email

Can I bring my bag into the galleries?

LACMA Security conducts randomized inspection of bags carried by visitors. Any bag 11 x 14 inches or larger is not allowed in the galleries. Coats and bags may be checked at the Ticket Office during regular operating hours. Please note that security officers may ask you to wear or carry smaller backpacks and purses on your front or by your side for the safety of our artwork.
 

Can I take photos with my phone or camera in the galleries?

Visitors are welcome to take personal photography in our galleries unless otherwise noted. Please, no flash, tripods, or selfie sticks. We’d love to see your photos; tag us @lacma!

LACMA may photograph or film visitors for promotional and educational purposes.
 

Can I fly a drone above LACMA?

Drones are not permitted at LACMA pursuant to museum policy and applicable laws (Los Angeles County Code section 17.04.630). There are no areas designated for the operation of model airplanes, boats, or other crafts anywhere on LACMA's campus.

 

Is drawing allowed in the galleries?

Drawing with pencil is allowed in the galleries. Easels are welcome outdoors as long as they are not blocking paths or interfering with public safety.
 

Can I bring food and drink into the galleries?

Please do not eat, drink, chew gum, smoke, or vape in the galleries. Visitors are welcome to bring food to LACMA’s campus, which has several outdoor areas with tables and chairs, as well as grassy lawns in Hancock Park.

 

Can I carry a child on my shoulders in the galleries?

For the safety of yourself, others, and the art, children may not be carried on an adult's shoulders at any time in the galleries.
 

What is the art class refund policy? 

Full refunds will only be granted if the art class is canceled by LACMA. Please notify us immediately if a student is unable to attend so that another student on our waiting list can attend class. A refund equal to half of tuition paid will be granted for cancellations made three weeks before class start date. No refunds for cancellations made less than three weeks prior to class start date.
 

Can I smoke or vape at LACMA?

No. LACMA is a smoke-free facility, including all indoor and outdoor spaces (i.e. plazas, lawns, and gardens).

Combustible tobacco products (i.e. cigarettes and cigars) and electronic cigarettes/vaping devices may only be used at the designated smoking area near the park entrance on 6th Street. Please note that the California Health and Safety Code prohibits using, smoking, eating, or vaping cannabis in public spaces, including anywhere within this facility.
 

Are masks mandatory?

Masks are strongly recommended indoors for everyone. Masks are available upon request at the LACMA Ticket Office.
 

Does the museum have a dress code?

Shoes are required in the galleries.
 

What is the museum's alcohol policy for outdoor consumption at events?

Guests are permitted to bring alcohol in quantities appropriate for personal consumption. LACMA reserves the right to ask visitors who abuse this privilege to leave, and to set other limits, including limiting the areas in which alcohol may be consumed. Consumption of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21 is strictly forbidden. Guests are reminded to drink responsibly. Do not drink and drive. Please observe the carry-in, carry-out courtesy and help keep LACMA and the park clean for all to enjoy.

Can kids visit for free?

Yes, everyone 0–2 enter for free! All children and youth 17 years of age or younger who live in L.A. County enter for free. Admission for children and youth ages 3–17 who live outside of L.A. County is $10. Please note that all visitors, including children, must reserve advance timed-entry tickets.

We also have a youth membership program called NexGenLA that anyone 17 years old or younger who lives in Los Angeles County can join for free. Benefits include free admission for the youth member, free admission for one guest, discounts for art classes, and engaging programs that include looking at, talking about, and making art.
 

Can we visit as a group?

Yes, group visits are welcome at the museum. Children must remain with supervising adults at all times. Please note that all visitors, including children, may reserve advance timed-entry tickets online or at the Ticket Office. School or community group tours and self-guided visits are available on a limited basis. Learn more at School & University Visits.
 

Can we touch the art?

Please do not touch the art, which harms it. A safe distance is about an adult arm’s length away.
 

Can we talk in the galleries?

We encourage and welcome conversations about art. Just use your inside voices so everyone can enjoy.
 

Can we run in the galleries?

Please walk inside the galleries. You can burn off some energy outside and in the park!

 

Can I carry a child on my shoulders in the galleries?

For the safety of yourself, others, and the art, children may not be carried on an adult's shoulders at any time in the galleries.

 

I am interested in hands-on art making activities. What can I do at the museum?

The Drawing Cart is available in the galleries on Fridays and Sundays, the Boone Children's Gallery is open on Saturdays, and Andell Family Sundays offer art-making activities on Sunday afternoons. You can also stop by the NexGenLA welcome table to pick up an activity guide for families. Schedule is subject to change. Visit the Event Calendar for the most up-to-date information.
 

Can I bring my stroller?

You are welcome to bring your stroller into most LACMA galleries unless otherwise noted. If you prefer to leave your stroller outside, non-secured stroller parking is provided outside the Resnick Pavilion.
 

Where can I feed my baby?

Breastfeeding and bottle feeding are welcome throughout the museum. Eating is only allowed outside.
 

Where are changing stations?

Changing stations are available in men’s and women’s restrooms in BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion.

What does my membership gift support?

Your membership gift supports exhibitions, concerts, classes, free admission for L.A. kids, and community outreach programs. Members make all these things happen—thank you! Each year, members support:

  • Community outreach programs reaching more than 350,000 people
  • More than 1,900 free gallery tours for the general public
  • More than 60,000 tours for schoolchildren throughout the Los Angeles area
  • NexGenLA, our FREE membership program for kids 17 and under who live in L.A. County
  • Free general admission for all visitors on the second Tuesday of each month, and free general admission to L.A. County residents Monday through Friday after 3 pm (closed on Wednesday)
  • 43 free Family Sundays, reaching more than 18,000 kids and families
  • Conservation of more than 115,000 works in our collection
  • Our Evenings for Educators program and other professional development programs for teachers that help bring art into classrooms
  • Our popular free Friday night Jazz at LACMA concert series
  • The Maya Mobile and Ancient World Mobile—our “art trucks” that travel to schools and teach more than 9,000 kids every year about art
  • Virtual programs serving art lovers of all ages throughout Los Angeles and beyond, from artist talks and film screenings to family-friendly workshops and much more
     

I just joined LACMA. What happens next?

First, you’ll receive a welcome email within about a week, which includes information about what’s on view,  what’s coming soon, and instructions on how to download our Mobile Member Card app.

If you joined (or renewed) at the Friend level ($300) or above, you’ll receive an acknowledgement letter and a plastic card in the mail within a few weeks. Members at the Friend level and above receive a plastic card in order to enjoy reciprocal admission benefits at 24 museums nationwide. We do not issue plastic membership cards at the Student, Individual, or Dual membership levels—your Mobile Member Card app, or a photo ID, is all you need to visit the museum

 

I joined at the Student, Individual, or Dual level and did not receive a plastic card.

We do not issue plastic membership cards at the Student, Individual, or Dual membership levels—your digital membership card, or a photo ID, is all you need to visit the museum.
 

How do I download a digital membership card?

Simply log in to your my.lacma.org account, click the button to add your membership card to the digital wallet on your iPhone or Android device, and follow the prompts! Please note that when you upgrade or renew your membership, you will need to download your updated card again (and delete the old one). This card functions just like the airline boarding passes and concert tickets you’re likely already familiar with.

How many membership cards do I get?

In an effort to be more environmentally friendly and direct more membership support to museum programs, we no longer issue plastic membership cards at the Student, Individual, and Dual levels. Members at these levels can check in at the Ticket Office with digital membership cards or a photo ID.

At the Friend level or above, you will receive a plastic membership card. If you have specified a second member on your membership record, you will also receive a second card with their name on it. If you have not specified a secondary person, you will only receive one card, but you may still use benefits for yourself and a guest every time you visit the museum.
 

I'm a Dual-level member or above. Can the second person on my membership visit without me? Can they bring a guest?

Your Dual-level ($130) or above membership grants admission for two people per day. If you are visiting the museum without the second person listed on your membership, you can bring a guest for free. The second listed member may do the same if they are visiting and you are not present. In other words, a total of two people may visit LACMA for free, per day, per Dual-level membership. If both people listed on a membership are visiting on the same day, and they are bringing guests, the guests will need to pay for admission. Members may purchase up to two discounted general admission tickets per visit.

If you have specified a secondary person on your membership, both of you may download a digital membership card by logging into the primary member's account at my.lacma.org. The card will show both members’ names. If you have not specified a secondary person, your digital membership card will only show your name, but you may still use benefits for yourself and a guest every time you visit the museum.

To specify a secondary member on your membership at the Dual level or above, please email @email. Please note: we no longer issue "Guest of" membership cards.
 

How many general admission guest passes do I receive with my membership and how do they work?

Friend-level ($300) members receive two general admission guest passes, Supporter-level ($650) members receive four, and Partner-level ($1,300) members receive six. They will be mailed to you in your welcome packet when you join or renew. Members must accompany their guests on visits.
 

Does LACMA membership grant reciprocal admission benefits at any other museums?

Yes. At the Friend-level ($300) and above, you will receive admission benefits at 24 other museums nationwide, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Fine Arts (Boston), Seattle Art Museum, and more. Learn more about reciprocal membership.
 

How do I update my contact information?

The fastest and easiest way to update your contact information is by emailing us at @email. You may also call Membership Services at 323 857-6151 Mondays through Fridays from 9 am to 5 pm.
 

What is the LACMA Parking Pass?

Members at the Dual level ($130) and above (which includes Curator’s Circle) may purchase a LACMA membership parking pass for $100 at the LACMA Ticket Office or by calling 323 857-6010. With the parking pass, you can park one car for free whenever you visit LACMA during museum hours through the duration of your membership year. The LACMA parking lots are for LACMA visits only. Once you’ve purchased the pass, simply stop by the Ticket Office on your way to the galleries to get your free validation. Your details are in the system at the Ticket Office—there are no physical passes that you need to carry. Please note: the LACMA membership parking pass does not guarantee that a parking spot will be available during each visit.

 

Is a LACMA membership tax deductible?

Tax deductibility varies based on membership level and benefits. For federal income tax purposes, the amount of your contribution that is deductible is limited to the excess of the amount of your contribution over the value of goods or services provided by LACMA. The value of goods and services for each membership level is as follows:

  • Student ($40): No goods and services
  • Individual ($80): No goods and services
  • Dual ($130): No goods and services
  • Friend ($300): Good and services valued at $140
  • Supporter ($650): Good and services valued at $220
  • Partner ($1,300): Good and services valued at $350

Why are some membership levels not tax deductible?

The IRS requires that we subtract the value of certain benefits from the full gift amount since the donor will receive benefits that have monetary value, such as guest passes, catalogues, and access to special events.
 

What are Art Councils and how do I get involved?

LACMA's Art Councils have been essential to establishing the museum's reputation as a world-class arts institution. Over the course of the museum's short history, these councils—each supporting a specific curatorial department—have acquired or helped acquire nearly 5,000 works of art for the museum, including some of its most iconic masterpieces. Learn more about Art Councils.
 

What is the annual Summer Evening?

Summer Evening is a fun, casual, open house and barbeque for members at the Partner level ($1,300) and above. It takes place in August, and it is for the entire family.
 

Can you describe the curator-guided tours a bit more?

There will be two curator-guided tours each year for Partner-level ($1,300) members. These tours will be led by LACMA curators and will give members an intimate view into special exhibitions at the museum.
 

What is NexGenLA?

NexGenLA is a free membership for children—17 years and younger—who live in Los Angeles County. NexGenLA members visit the museum for free and may bring one guest for free. NexGenLA members also receive discounts on studio classes and art camps, but do not receive a discount in the LACMA Store. LACMA Store discounts are reserved for members at the Student level and above. Learn more about NexGenLA.
 

How do I sign up for a Student membership?
Full-time undergraduate students currently enrolled in college are eligible for the Student-level membership. Visit the Ticket Office and show proof of enrollment and provide your expected graduation date to join.

What is NexGenLA?

NexGenLA is a FREE membership for children—17 years and younger—who live in Los Angeles County. NexGenLA members visit the museum for free and may bring one guest for free. There are more than 250,000 members of the NexGenLA community! If you are an L.A. County resident, we hope you join and visit often. Learn more about NexGenLA. Please note that all visitors, including NexGenLA members and children, must reserve advance timed-entry tickets. 

How much does it cost to join NexGenLA?

NexGenLA is free to join and offers free admission to the child member and one guest!
 

Who can join?

Anyone who lives in Los Angeles County and is under the age of 18 can join NexGenLA—even babies! Visitors 18 years and over can join LACMA at the right membership level for them.
 

How do we join?

Print, complete, and mail a NexGenLA enrollment form with the child's name, date of birth, address, and email. We’ll mail the membership card to the child and keep you up-to-date on engaging art classes, camps, and programs in our monthly family email. For children under 13, a parent or guardian signature is required.

How do we renew?

No need to renew. Membership is valid until your 18th birthday.
 

What are NexGenLA benefits?

NexGenLA members can bring one guest for free and receive discounts on studio classes and art camps. They do not receive a discount in the LACMA Store. LACMA Store discounts are reserved for members at the Student level and above. Please note that all visitors, including NexGenLA members and children, must reserve advance timed-entry tickets. 

What is the difference between Arts for NexGen and NexGenLA?

On July 1, 2019, Arts for NexGen became NexGenLA to focus on children living in Los Angeles County. While NexGenLA offers the same programs and benefits Arts for NexGen did, it is now a special perk for Los Angeles County children. All Arts for NexGen members as of June 30, 2019 have automatically been enrolled in NexGenLA.
 

Why is NexGenLA focusing on L.A. County?

As a county museum, LACMA is dedicated to serving all of Los Angeles County residents. We believe in investing in the next generation of L.A., and this program is intended for kids and teens living in L.A. County to make the museum a regular part of their lives. Los Angeles County is LACMA’s largest funder, and this is just one way for us to say thank you to the County and its residents.
 

I am an Arts for NexGen member. Do I need to do anything to become a NexGenLA member?

No, all Arts for NexGen members as of June 30, 2019 will be automatically enrolled in NexGenLA.  
 

I am an Arts for NexGen member but I don’t live in Los Angeles County. Am I still eligible to be a NexGenLA member?

Yes! If you are already an Arts for NexGen member as of June 30, 2019, you can enjoy all the benefits of NexGenLA until your 18th birthday, regardless of where you live. And you don’t have to do anything; you will be automatically enrolled in NexGenLA!
 

I am not a NexGenLA member, but I live in Los Angeles County. Can I bring a guest for free?

Free admission for one guest is a special perk for NexGenLA members. If you live in Los Angeles County, sign up for NexGenLA! Please note that all visitors, including NexGenLA members and guests, must reserve advance timed-entry tickets. Please note that all visitors, including NexGenLA members and guests, must reserve advance timed-entry tickets.

How do I prove that I live in L.A. County?

To show that you live in L.A. County, you will need to share the child’s zip code.
 

Can I join even if I don’t live in L.A. County?

No. NexGenLA is a local perk for kids and teens living in Los Angeles County. 
 

I am an adult who doesn’t live in L.A. County, but I am visiting LACMA with a child who lives in L.A. County. Can the child enroll in NexGenLA?

Yes! This membership is based on where the child lives.
 

I am an adult who lives in L.A. County, but I am visiting LACMA with a child who does not live in L.A. County. Can the child enroll in NexGenLA?

No. As this membership is based on where the child lives, the child is not eligible to enroll in NexGenLA.
 

I lost my card. How do I get a new one?

Call the Education department at 323 857-6512 or email @email
 

Can teens come by themselves?

Yes, with parent or guardian permission—kids ages 13 and older are allowed to be at the museum by themselves. Bring your friends!



NexGenLA Enrollment

¿Qué es NexGenLA?

NexGenLA es la membresía gratuita para niños y jóvenes menores de 17 años que viven en el condado de Los Ángeles. Los miembros de NexGenLA pueden visitar el museo gratis y traer un invitado gratis. ¡La comunidad NexGenLA tiene más de 250.000 miembros! Si usted vive en el condado de Los Ángeles, esperamos que se registre y visite el museo con frecuencia. A continuación, encontrará más información sobre NexGenLAPor favor tenga en cuenta que todos los visitantes, incluidos los miembros de NexGenLA y los niños, deben reservar boletas por anticipado con fecha y hora de entrada.


¿Cuánto cuesta ser miembro de NexGenLA?

Ser miembro de NexGenLA no cuesta nada. ¡El niño que es miembro y un invitado entran gratis!


¿Quién puede registrarse?

Cualquier persona menor de 17 años que viva en el condado de Los Ángeles puede ser miembro de NexGenLA, ¡incluidos los bebés! Los visitantes de 18 años y mayores pueden ser miembros de LACMA en el nivel de membresía que les corresponda.


¿Cómo nos registramos?

Imprima el formulario de inscripción de NexGenLA, llénelo y envíelo por correo con el nombre del niño, la fecha de nacimiento, la dirección, y el correo electrónico. Nosotros le enviaremos por correo la tarjeta de membresía del niño, y los mantendremos informados sobre clases de arte, campamentos y programas de interés a través del mensaje mensual de correo electrónico que se envía a las familias. Se requiere la firma de un padre o tutor para los niños menores de 13 años.


¿Cómo se renueva?

No es necesario renovar la membresía. Es válida hasta cumplir los 18 años.


¿Cuáles son los beneficios de NexGenLA?

Los miembros de NexGenLA pueden traer un invitado gratis y recibir descuentos en los talleres y campamentos de arte. Ellos no reciben descuentos en el almacén de LACMA. Los descuentos en el almacén de LACMA están reservados para miembros al nivel de Estudiante y niveles más altos. Por favor tenga en cuenta que todos los visitantes, incluidos los miembros de NexGenLA y los niños, deben reservar boletas por anticipado con fecha y hora de entrada.


¿Cuál es la diferencia entre Arts for NexGen y NexGenLA?

El 1º de julio de 2019, Arts for NexGen se convirtió en NexGenLA para así enfocar su atención en los niños que viven en el condado de Los Ángeles. NexGenLA ofrece los mismos programas y beneficios de Arts for NexGen , pero ahora es un beneficio exclusivo de los niños del condado de Los Ángeles. A partir del 30 de junio de 2019, los miembros de Arts for NexGen quedaron automáticamente registrados en NexGenLA.


¿Por qué NexGenLA está enfocado en el condado de Los Ángeles?

LACMA, como museo del condado, se dedica a servir a los residentes del condado de Los Ángeles. Nosotros le apostamos a la nueva generación de angelinos, y este programa tiene como propósito hacer que el museo sea parte de la vida diaria de los niños y jóvenes que viven en el condado de Los Ángeles. El condado de Los Ángeles es el mayor patrocinador de LACMA, y ésta es una de las maneras de agradecerle al condado y a sus residentes.


Soy miembro de Arts for NexGen. ¿Debo hacer algo para convertirme en miembro del programa NexGenLA?

No, a partir del 30 de junio de 2019 todos los miembros de Arts for NexGen quedarán automáticamente registrados en NexGenLA.


Soy miembro de Arts for NexGen pero no vivo en el condado de Los Ángeles ¿Puedo continuar siendo miembro de NexGenLA?

¡Sí! Si ya es miembro de Arts for NexGen, desde el 30 de junio de 2019 podrá disfrutar de todos los beneficios de NexGenLA hasta que cumpla los 18 años, sin importar dónde reside. No tiene que hacer nada; ¡quedará automáticamente registrado en NexGenLA!


No soy miembro de NexGenLA pero vivo en el condado de Los Ángeles. ¿Puedo traer un invitado sin tener que pagar?

La entrada gratis para un invitado es uno de los beneficios de los miembros de NexGenLA . ¡Si usted vive en el condado de Los Ángeles, regístrese en NexGenLA! Por favor tenga en cuenta que todos los visitantes, incluidos los miembros e invitados de NexGenLA deben reservar boletas por anticipado con fecha y hora de entrada.


¿Cómo demuestro que vivo en el condado de Los Ángeles?

Para demostrar que vive en el condado de Los Ángeles, usted debe compartir el código postal del niño.


¿Puedo registrarme si no vivo en el condado de Los Ángeles?

No. NexGenLA es un beneficio local para los niños y jóvenes que viven en el condado de Los Ángeles.


Soy un adulto y no vivo en el condado de Los Ángeles, pero estoy visitando LACMA con un niño que vive en el condado de Los Ángeles. ¿El niño puede registrarse en NexGenLA?

¡Sí! El lugar de residencia del niño es el requisito principal para ser miembro. Soy un adulto y vivo en el condado de Los Ángeles, pero estoy visitando LACMA con un niño que no vive en el condado de Los Ángeles.


¿El niño puede registrase en NexGenLA?

No. El lugar de residencia del niño es el requisito para registrarse en NexGenLA . Se me perdió la tarjeta.


¿Cómo consigo una nueva?

Por favor llame al Departamento de Educación al 323 857-6512 o envíe un correo a @email


¿Los jóvenes pueden visitar el museo solos?

Sí, con el permiso de los padres o del tutor, los niños de 13 años y mayores pueden visitar solos el museo. ¡Vengan con sus amigos!

 

Who may use the Research Library?

The Balch Research Library is open to all individuals interested in researching and learning about art, including museum staff, docents, volunteers, interns, LACMA members, visitors, outside scholars, students, and appraisers.
 

How do I prepare for a visit?

Before requesting an appointment, researchers are encouraged to search the Library’s online catalog WorldCat LACMA to identify items that you wish to consult. To request an appointment, please fill out this appointment request form or call 323 857-6118. We request that a list of the materials you would like to consult be given to us at least 24 hours in advance to ensure that we have adequate time to page any materials located in one of our satellite libraries. Requested materials will be ready when you arrive, provided they are not being used by one of the museum’s curatorial departments.
 

May I check out library materials?

The Balch Research Library is a non-circulating library. However, research materials are available for consultation in the Library's reading room. Photocopying is available for most materials. For patrons who want to check out library materials, we suggest the Beverly Hills Public Library or the Los Angeles Public Library.
 

May I submit reference questions by email?

Researchers may submit reference questions relevant to the library and archives subject areas to library@lacma.org.
 

May I reproduce images from LACMA’s collections?

Some records at collections.lacma.org for artworks believed to be in the public domain offer a download option beneath the main image. For all other works of art, use the link labeled "Order Photography" beneath the main image, or contact the museum’s Rights and Reproductions department at rights@lacma.org to order photography from LACMA's collections or for permission to reproduce any part of the LACMA website.
 

May I make photocopies from your library materials?

Yes, you may make photocopies from most of the items in our collection. Researchers must observe copyright laws when making and using copies.
 

May I take photographs of portions of your library materials?

Yes, you may photograph portions of most materials. However, flash photography is prohibited. Researchers must observe copyright laws when making reproductions.  
 

What electronic resources do you offer?

In addition to WorldCat for locating books, exhibition catalogs, museum publications, periodicals, artist files, and more, the Research Library also provides a broad range of online resources devoted to the visual arts. Library staff is available to provide introductory guidance for these resources.
 

What is in the Library’s artist files?

The Library’s artist files, numbering over 35,000 folders, contain exhibition announcements, press releases, clippings, brochures, small exhibition catalogues or checklists, or other ephemera.
 

How do I find out more about a work of art in LACMA's collection?

You may begin your research with LACMA’s collections website, a searchable database of artworks and related materials from LACMA’s permanent collection, as well as artworks the museum plans on acquiring. An individual database record includes information about the object as well as images and bibliographical information, when available. Since the Research Library supports scholarship related to LACMA's collection, the library staff provides access to library materials, including the museum’s publications found in WorldCat along with subscription databases for research use within the library itself. For assistance with your research, contact a librarian.
 

How do I find out if a specific work of art is on view?

You may search the collections website to determine whether a specific work of art is on public display. The location of the object will be listed in its individual record. If you require further assistance, please contact the Library.
 

Art Inquiries

  • How do I find out more information about a work of art I own?

  • The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) provides guidance under their FAQs: How can I find out about an artist?

  • How can I learn about that value of an artwork, its provenance, or its attribution?

  • Museum personnel do not appraise works of art. To locate an appraiser that matches your needs, call or visit the websites of the following professional associations:

American Society of Appraisers (ASA)
800-272-8258
www.appraisers.org

International Society of Appraisers (ISA)
312-981-6778
www.isa-appraisers.org

Appraisers Association of America (AAA)
212-889-5404
www.appraisersassoc.org
 

While an initial discussion may be complimentary, appraisers charge for their services. Consider researching similar objects before hiring an appraiser. For your use, the Balch Research Library subscribes to auction databases that indicate current market values.

Christie’s
310-385-2600
http://www.christies.com/

Bonhams & Butterfields
323-850-7500
http://www.bonhams.com/usa/home/

This auction house also features valuation days when patrons can bring in a limited number of artworks for a brief appraisal.

Why did you redesign the website?

We redesigned our website to better connect our audience to the wide range of cultural offerings that LACMA presents on campus and around the world. Read more about the process on Unframed.
 

Why is the site black?

Our mobile-friendly “dark mode” color scheme can reduce mobile battery drain and user eyestrain. We’ve included a toggle in the footer of the site for those who prefer a lighter palette. Read more about the benefits of dark mode.
 

Is the old site still accessible to the public?

The old site is no longer accessible to the public. If you’re having trouble locating content that lived on our old site, try using the search function or leave us a note on our website feedback page.
 

I clicked a link on an old site or blog post, and received a "Page Not Found" message on the new site.

Apologies for the inconvenience! We’re tracking “Page Not Found” errors and redirecting to the appropriate content on the new site as quickly as possible.
 

Does your site comply with accessibility standards?

LACMA is committed to providing a great experience for everyone. We’ve designed our website  to comply with assistive software and common web standards. If you're experiencing a problem accessing our site via assistive software or hardware, please leave us a note on our website feedback page.
 

Where is the Reading Room?

Based on observed user patterns and the new site architecture, the resources previously located in the Reading Room have been relocated to new site areas. Materials that are associated with past exhibitions have been moved to the Past Exhibition pages. Publications, whether digital or printed, are now highlighted in our Publications section. Digitized publications are available through Archive.org, on-sale publications are available through the LACMA Store, and out-of-print publications are made available through WorldCat.
 

Why does Collections Online look the same?

LACMA’s online collections pages are next in line for a redesign. We appreciate your patience as we continue to adapt and improve our digital platforms to achieve the best experience for online visitors.
 

Where is the Video section?

With the addition of these new content areas came the reconsideration of existing content. LACMA’s video productions have been relocated to YouTube, where we’re leveraging their powerful algorithm and search capabilities to connect viewers to the museum’s video content. Each month we’re featuring a playlist of videos that explore artists and exhibition themes in-depth. These playlists collate LACMA’s original productions and videos from trusted content producers around YouTube. This month’s playlist centers around the exhibition Outliers and American Vanguard Art, bringing together documentaries, artist films, and conversations with curators and artists that are shown in the exhibition. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for updates.