Commerce Research Library: Training and Events in the Library: Reserve the Reading Room

About the Reading Room

Interested in using the Commerce Research Library for your event? The Reading Room brings historic charm, a warm ambiance, and 21st Century technology to important events. This magnificent, 2-story space preserves the original architecture and design from when the Herbert C. Hoover building first opened in 1932.

Download our Meeting and Event Brochure for more information.

3 Steps to Having Your Event in the Library

Do you think the Reading Room is perfect for your upcoming event? Here's how to book, plan, and execute a successful presentation, meeting, reception, and more:

Reserve the Room (HCHB staff only)
Use the room booking tool to check the availability of your dates and request a reservation (the room is available Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00am-4:30pm). Include ample set-up and clean-up time (even if this means booking the space an hour or two the afternoon before!) and answer a few quick questions about the nature of the event to help us anticipate your needs. Once you make the request, we will review the calendar and approve or deny the reservation accordingly.
Schedule a Walkthrough & Discuss Logistics with Library Staff
With events ranging from informal receptions to formal meetings with high-level foreign officials, we've learned what it takes to make events in the Reading Room polished and professional. By walking the space with you and your team, we will make sure there are clear expectations about the amenities offered by the library and your responsibilities as the event's organizer.
The Big Day
Proper planning is essential, and we'll make sure you've covered your bases when it comes to the Reading Room. Library staff will be largely hands-off at this point, but available to address your last-minute questions. Once your event has ended and your team has cleaned up and reset the room as needed, you can go relax and revel in a job well done.