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American Philatelic Research Library

Services Library

American Philatelic Research Library

Discover the World's Leading Stamp Research Library

✔ 23,000+ Books ✔ 5,700+ Journals ✔ Global Resources  ✔ 2,800+Auction Catalogs ✔ 900+ Government Records    
The American Philatelic Research Library (APRL) is the world’s largest and most accessible philatelic library with nearly four miles of shelving of stamp and postal history research material. Whether you’re researching a stamp, verifying a collection, or exploring the history of postal systems, APRL provides trusted resources for collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts of all levels.
 

Search the Library

Robert A. Mason

Digital Collections

Access growing online collections through the Robert A. Mason Digital Library.

  • Digital periodicals & exhibits
  • Digital books
  • Available to the public
  • Supported by APS members
Explore Digital Collections

David Straight Memorial

Philatelic Catalog

Search the holdings of APRL and 14 philatelic libraries worldwide.



 

Search Physical Libraries

Library Services

APRL offers both in-person and remote research services.

Visit the library in Bellefonte, PA

Request scans

Research by phone or email

Borrow books (APS members)

 

 

Learn More About Library Services & Fees

 

 

Buy Used Philatelic Literature

Browse the APRL used book sale.
Discounted philatelic books and materials

Donated by members

Curated by volunteers
 

 

 

Shop Used Books

Philatelic Literature
Review

Stay informed with APRL's biannual research journal.
Research articles and bibliographics

Book reviews and industry news

Collector insight and updates

Annual subscription starts at $21

 

 

Subscribe to PLR

 

Already Subscribed? Click here to read the PLR.

What You Can Do at the APRL

Research, verify, explore, and learn.

  • Research stamps, covers, and postal history
  • Access rare books, journals, and catalogs
  • Verify information before buying or selling stamps
  • Explore digital collections from your own home
  • Get expert research assistance
  • Visit in-person OR use APRL services remotely 

Explore the Collections

APRL holds an extraordinary collection of philatelic materials:

  • 26,000+ book titles
  • 6,500+ journal titles
  • Auction catalogs and price lists
  • Specialized and general stamp catalogs
  • Government documents
  • Stamp show programs and exhibits
  • Archival and research collections

 

Have a Request for the Library?

To request scans, borrow a book or to have us do research just click on the link below.

 

 

 

 

 

Postal History Symposium

A forum for philatelists, academic scholars, postal historians… read more.

 

American Philatelic Research Library By-Laws

APRL By-Laws pdf

American Philatelic Society

The American Philatelic Society is a non-profit organization for stamp collectors worldwide. Founded in 1886, the APS serves collectors, educators, postal historians, and the general public by providing a wide variety of programs and services.

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