The Facilities Archive consists of over 140,000 digital and physical drawings, plans, and manuals that date back to the founding of the Cambridge campus in 1913.
Many notable architects have designed buildings for MIT, including I.M. Pei, Stephen Holl, Alvar Aalto, Frank Gehry, and Eero Saarinen. When exploring the MIT campus, one can clearly see how the architecture speaks to both art and science.
For documentation related to the original Boston campus, prior to 1913, please contact the MIT Museum.
The archives are primarily for use by Department of Facilities staff, however, members of the MIT community may contact us with inquiries.
Helpful Links
Archive FAQs
General
How do I contact the Facilities Archive?
Please send a message to fis-request@mit.edu.
Who can access the Facilities Archive collection?
The collection is primarily for use by MIT project managers and facility staff. Other members of the MIT Community should send inquiries to fis-request@mit.edu.
Department of Facilities Staff
How do I get to the Archives Explorer?
The Archives Explorer is available to Department of Facilities staff only. It can be accessed here with touchstone authentication.
Can I download drawings from Archives Explorer?
Yes, if you have access to the Archives Explorer you may download files directly from the collection.
What if I can’t find what I’m looking for?
If you are having trouble locating a specific file, please reach out to us and we will assist you.
MIT Students, Faculty & Staff
Can I search within the archives?
Students, faculty, and staff outside of the Department of Facilities do not have access to our archival collections. However, our online exhibits often offer helpful information and are freely available to view here.
What if I need to use archival materials for a class project?
Some archival materials are available for use by students for class projects, however you will need approval from both the instructor of the course and the archives staff. Please fill out the release form and email it to fis-request@mit.edu.
Can I publish documents from the archive or exhibits?
Publishing Department of Facilities documentation is not permitted. Exhibits and available resources are view-only.
How long does it take to get a response about archives use?
Please allow 5-7 business days for a response to archives inquiries.
Are there other resources at MIT available for architectural study?
Because the facilities archive is specifically for materials relating to MIT and has limited access, more general architectural resources can be found through the Rotch Library, MIT Libraries’ Distinctive Collections, or the MIT Museum.
Can I visit the physical archives?
No, unfortunately we do grant physical access to materials. If there is a specific document you would like to see please email us at fis-request@mit.edu and we will try to accommodate your request.
Non-MIT Scholars & Inquiries
I am not affiliated with MIT; can I still use the archives?
Please email us at fis-requests@mit.edu to inquire. We try to accommodate all requests, but due to the nature of the archive access to outside researchers is limited. You may also browse our online exhibits that feature some of our most requested materials, please feel free to look through those before contacting us with specific inquiries. Otherwise, we will try to accommodate your request as best we can.
I’m looking for photographs of MIT’s campus, is that something the facilities archives provides?
For more image resources, we recommend reaching out to the MIT Museum.