ABOUT THE LIBRARY

Established in 1916, the AAC Library is one of the oldest alpine libraries in the United States. We have a circulating collection of more than 20,000 books, maps, and videos devoted to mountaineering, alpinism, rock climbing, ice climbing, and bouldering.

Non-circulating collections include:

  • Hundreds of Domestic & Foreign Periodicals
    Click here for a list of titles

    • Special Book Collections:
  • Nicholas B. Clinch Collection
  • John M. Boyle Himalayan Collection
  • Rare Books Collection
  • Armando Menocal Guidebook Collection
  • Ray Weisbond Ski Collection
  • Enos Mills Collection

    • Archives & Gear/Artifact Collections:
  • Manuscript collections
    • Click for list of collections (coming soon!)
  • American Alpine Club Institutional Archives
  • Colorado Mountain Club Collection

    • The Library focuses on American and foreign guidebooks, mountain regions everywhere, including Mount Everest and the Himalayas, and the Alps. Our mission as climbing's cultural heritage archive is to preserve mountaineering history. The collection includes nearly 600 journals and magazines from all over the world, and over 500 videos and DVDs. The entire circulating collection is cataloged online so you can easily find what you're looking for and have us mail the books and videos to you. 

    As an AAC member, you can borrow up to ten items (5 videos at a time) for 35 days. For members outside the Golden area, library staff will mail you the guidebooks, videos, or other books for free (within the US). The only cost to you is the return postage and shipping insurance

    The Club Rooms & Library at 113 East 90th Street, NY, in 1948. Photo: Henry S. Hall, Jr. American Alpine Club Library      

    Having trouble finding the information you're looking for? Our staff and volunteers are happy to assist with your research. Email us at [email protected] or call at 303-384-0112.

    Be sure to check our policies and research rates.