USCIS Historical Reference Library

The I&N Historical Reference Library collection focuses primarily on the history of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and its predecessor agencies (INS, Bureau of Naturalization, etc.), then on the history of immigration to the United States and the history of the federal government generally. The textual collection, which is referenced by an automated catalog, consists partly of books, periodicals and other published sources, and partly of agency publications and unpublished reports, studies, papers and other documents dating from the turn of the century to the present. In addition, the library has a collection of photographs and videotapes that can be made available to you upon request. 

Among the library’s frequent patrons are scholars, students, journalists, attorneys and many others with an interest in the history of immigration and nationality law, policy and agency programs. The USCIS Historical Reference Library is located at 111 Massachusetts Ave. NW, First Floor (Room 1000), Washington DC 20529-2180. The library is open to non-USCIS researchers by appointment only.

To schedule an appointment (an extended research visit) email us at  CISHistory.Library@dhs.gov or write to the address above.  All visitors must present a valid form of photo identification and enter through building security. All foreign nationals must submit identification 30 days in advance for security clearance.

See our on-line catalog to learn more.  To view the library collection, reference services, contact information and online catalog please open or download the brochures below.