About the American Alpine Club Library
Established in 1916, the AAC Library is one of the oldest alpine libraries in the United States. We have a collection of more than 20,000 books and videos devoted to mountaineering, alpinism, rock climbing, ice climbing, and bouldering. Rare and non-circulating collections include:
- The AAC archives
- John M. Boyle Himalayan Library
- Photographs
- Manuscript collections
- Rare books dating back to the 16th century
- The Central Asia 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 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 books and five videos for 28 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. Having trouble finding the information you're looking for? Our staff and volunteers are happy to assist with your research. Be sure to check our policies and research rates on the our website.
To contact us, call 303-384-0112 or email [email protected]