Plan a Visit

The Missouri Valley Room

Located on the 5th floor of the Central Library, the Missouri Valley Room provides researchers access to the Library’s local history and special collections. The room is open to all Library visitors. If you would like to communicate with a staff member, discuss how to access specific items, or have items pulled in advance of your visit, please submit a research visit request and a staff member will reach out to help.

Features

Researchers are welcome to make use of the room’s study tables, free wireless internet, microfilm stations, research computers, and book scanner.

Browsing Collection

Our Browsing Collection makes a wide assortment of Kansas City and regional history books available in the Missouri Valley Room. Researchers will find sections devoted to new books, the American West, the Civil War, African American History & Culture, Kansas City and regional growth, arts & culture, periodicals, and genealogy.

Closed Stacks

We are happy to retrieve items from our closed stacks area. Please see the staff member at the Missouri Valley Room service desk for assistance.

Policies

A Researcher Card is required to access most Missouri Valley Special Collections items. Researchers must complete a registration form, present a valid Kansas City Public Library card or photo ID, and follow the rules of the room, which include:

• Items in the Missouri Valley Room cannot be checked out or leave the room.
• No food or drinks.
• Only pencils may be used in the room.
• Personal items such as bags, backpacks, purses, laptop cases, coats, and jackets must be stored in a locker.

Parking

The Central Library parking garage is located directly west of The Central Library building on the northwest corner of 10th and Baltimore (enter on Baltimore). Please note: The Central Library parking garage has a maximum 8’ (eight foot) clearance.

Learn more about the Central Library's parking system and cost to park >>

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I access microfilm for The Kansas City Star, The Kansas City Times, The Call, or The Kansas City Journal in the Missouri Valley Room?

No, microfilm for these titles are located on the 3rd floor of the Central Library.

Do I need a Library card to use the Missouri Valley Room?

No, you will register for a Researcher card when you arrive in the Missouri Valley Room. If you do not have a Library card, staff will ask to verify your identity with a photo ID.

Do I need to wear a mask to enter the Library?

No, masks are optional inside Library buildings. Learn more about KCPL's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and available services >>

Can I print, scan, or photocopy materials during my visit?

Free printing is available, as well as free photocopying, faxing, and scanning. If printing from your own device, use our Remote Printing service.