AAC Library
The Henry S. Hall Jr. American Alpine Club Library houses one of the world’s finest collections of mountain-related artifacts, archives, rare books, maps, and media. The Club’s library team protects this collection, supports research projects, and keeps the record for generations to come.
Library Update
Since the AAC Library’s physical location closed in September of 2024, our library team has continued to help members access materials via bookmail. Starting on October 1, 2026, we will be pausing library bookmail service as we prepare the collection for its upcoming move to the University of Denver’s Hampden Center, where the Club has leased dedicated space for library and fine arts storage. During this pause, members will not be able to request or receive library materials via bookmail.
Explore the Library—Current Exhibitions
While the Club’s library team prepares the collection for storage, the American Alpine Club still offers opportunities to explore materials.
Members can view our 10th Mountain Division objects at the Golden History Museum as part of the Glimpses of Golden exhibit through the end of 2027. Stop by to visit our materials in real life!
Explore the Library—Legacy Series
The American Alpine Club’s Legacy Series pays tribute to the visionary climbers who made the sport what it is today and stands as a commitment to securing their legacies. The 10+ year project collected over 70 recorded interviews to be preserved in the American Alpine Club’s Library for future generations to enjoy.
Stories from the Archive
An original self-powered adventurer, Albert Ellingwood, walked hundreds of miles, resoling his boots in each town, and climbing difficult routes when he reached each destination. He did this wearing hobnailed boots, low-tech clothing, and carrying a heavy pack.
Does the AAC Library have books, artifacts and archives about women? Yes! Read more to find out what we have.
In 1925 Albert H. MacCarthy had just led a successful first ascent of Mount Logan in Canada, composed of climbers from Canada, Britain and the United States. MacCarthy, an American and member of the American Alpine Club, wrote a number of reports and summaries of the expedition, including this list of Mountain “Dont’s.”
It had all begun on an afternoon some nine months previous. Four of us were lying about relaxing after a particularly fine Teton climb when someone enthusiastically suggested, "Let’s climb the south face of McKinley next summer!” To attempt a new and difficult route on North America’s highest mountain seemed a most worthwhile enterprise; without further ado, we cemented the proposal with a great and ceremonious toast.
Contact the AAC Library
For any inquiries, please email [email protected] or call 303-384-0112.

