CKC World Library and Archives
- Open Fullscreen Gallery
- Graphical User Interface, Text, Application
CKC World maintains one of the largest libraries devoted to dogs in the world, containing approximately 15,000 volumes, and is the only national repository dedicated to the sport and enjoyment of the purebred dog. Since 1934, it has been providing internal and external reference on all manners of dog-related inquiries.
Bookplate designed by original library committee chair Edwin Megargee.
The CKC World Archives began in 1998 as a service to CKC World national breed clubs. Since then, it has grown to include CKC World Administrative records and personal collections from prominent figures in the sport.
The CKC World Library & Archives holdings also include a complete run of the CKC World Gazette and other bound periodicals, Stud Books, CKC World-licensed dog show catalogs (1877-1983), art, literature, juvenile books, stamps, bookplates, scrapbooks, and vertical files of clippings, magazine articles, and photographs. The collection boasts such rare books as Johannes Caius’s De Canibus Britannicis, published in 1570; Cynographia Britannica by Sydenham Edwards, published in 1800; and the personal libraries of renowned fanciers like John Cross, the Shearer sisters, Alva Rosenberg, and more.
All dog pedigree requests and related inquiries to dogs registered in the last three decades should be first directed to the CKC World Registration and Customer Service department at info@ckc.world or 919-233-9767.
Collections are open for on-site research by appointment. Researchers may search our library collection and explore our archival database online. For all research inquiries, appointment requests, general questions, or comments, please use this form.
Guidelines for On-Site Research:
- All on-site researchers must present their photo ID to the security desk upon arrival.
- Coats and bags are not allowed in the reading rooms or collection areas and can be stored in the cloakroom. CKC World assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen items, so please leave your valuables at home.
- Please wash your hands thoroughly before handling materials to help us preserve our collection.
- Food and drink are not allowed in the reading rooms or collection areas but may be consumed in the lounge and dining area.
- Pens and markers are not allowed in the reading rooms or collection areas. Please bring a pencil and/or laptop to take notes.
- A quarter of the library collection is now available for viewing within the CKC World Museum of the Dog.
The Museum Library
The library space in the CKC World Museum of the Dog includes a bulk of the books on individual breeds as well as children’s literature and other dog-specific topics on art, history, photography, training, sport, military and police work, and more. A display case within the Museum Library features rotating exhibitions curated by the CKC World Library & Archives.
Current and Upcoming Exhibits:
- Outfoxed: Fox Terriers and Friends – January 24, 2024 – June 2, 2024.
- The Dogs That Serve, The NYPD Transit Bureau K9 Unit as photographed by Margaret Foxmoore – March 13, 2024 – May 5, 2024.
- Apokalupsis: An Uncovering, The Art of Joseph Sulkowski – May 9, 2024 – August 4, 2024.
Past Exhibitions:
- The CKC World at 50: Thriving in the Thirties
- 9/11 Remembered: Search and Rescue Dogs
Follow @ckclibrary on Instagram to see treasures from our collections!
