About the
Automotive Research Library
The Automotive Research Library of the Horseless Carriage Foundation was established in 1985 with the primary purpose of recreating the pioneer automotive research libraries of W. Everett Miller and Dr. Alfred S. Lewerenz. Our goal was, and still is, to make automotive research and restoration information readily available to hobbyists, restorers, and scholars worldwide. Prior to June, 1995 the Automotive Research Library shared space in the San Diego Automotive Museum. In August, 1995 the Library opened its own facility in the San Diego area.
Location
Our location provides improved access and service to automotive hobbyists and researchers. The Library features a pleasant reading room, research service center, climate controlled archival storage, and warehouse. Located right off Interstate 8 (see map) we are within two blocks of the Grossmont Shopping Center, and a variety of restaurants. A choice of motel lodging is within a two mile radius. Two San Diego Trolley stations are nearby. Local and out of town auto hobbyists are always welcome. Small study groups and student groups can be accommodated by appointment. Check Library hours and days of operation.
Collection
The core collection of the Automotive Research Library emphasizes literature of the pre-1943 era. However, the Library has a growing collection of motor vehicle literature including, classic cars, foreign, cars, trucks and sports cars up to the modern era. Our six major automotive literature collections are the Richard A. Teague Collection, Art Twohy Collection, Julian Eccles Collection, James Valentine Collection, David Rice Collection, and the Lindley Bothwell Collection. The Library opened in January of 1991. In August, 1995 the Library moved to larger facilities in La Mesa, CA.
The HCFI Library encourages and supports co-operation between automotive libraries in this country and overseas. Our funding comes from individual donations and grants from various charitable organizations including the Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation. Additional income from user fees helps to support Library services.
