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James D. Van Trump Library

The James D. Van Trump Library houses books, manuscripts, periodicals, historic site survey data, photographs and other visual documentation (slide collections and shows), maps and plat books, renderings and blueprints, and other materials pertaining to the activities of Landmarks, regional history, Allegheny County Historic Buildings Survey, African American History Survey, architecture, historic preservation, urban planning, engineering and technological development, interior design, and landscape design.

The Library is named to honor the work of Jamie Van Trump, a co-founder of PHLF, whose professional library forms the core of our book collection, and whose early exploration of Pittsburgh’s architectural heritage remains the cornerstone for all subsequent inquiry.

Collection Use and User Fees

The James D. Van Trump Library is open to members and the public. Library materials do not circulate.

Members of Landmarks have unlimited reference use of the library materials, in person and via telephone consultation. To become a member, click here.

Non-members may use the Library upon payment of a $25 fee which entitles them to use the Library for a period of five consecutive working days.  Students of high school level and above may use the Library at no charge; a valid student identification is required.

Reproduction of Library Materials

A maximum of 10 photocopies will be provided free to members and non-members. Fees may be charged for additional copies.

Reproduction of photographs, slides, and other visual materials can be arranged; the archivist can provide information about prices, services, and procedures.  A service fee of $5 will be added to all photographic reproduction costs charged to patrons (members as well as nonmembers) for orders under $50.  A fee of 10% of the cost of the order will be assessed for reproduction orders over $50.

Citation and Copyright

Materials reproduced from the Library’s collection must include a citation stating that the material is used with the permission of the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation.  If appropriate, the names of specific library collections should also be cited.  If the Library does not hold the literary rights to material in its collections, it is the responsibility of the user to secure these rights where required by law.

The Library is open by appointment between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Library is closed on major holidays. Call 412- 471-5808 for an appointment to use the Library, for more information about its holdings, and to ask historical or architectural reference questions.

Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation

100 West Station Square Drive, Suite 450

Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Phone: 412-471-5808  |  Fax: 412-471-1633