How to Crawl

During the Sacramento Archives Crawl, archives and special collections libraries from all over the Sacramento region set up exhibits at four host archives in Downtown Sacramento to display items from their collections.

As a Crawler, you’ll tour among the four host sites and visit with archivists, see local history exhibits, learn about historic preservation and research, and go on behind-the-scenes tours the public doesn’t normally get to go on. Get your Crawl passports stamped and go home with a commemorative coaster set.  

Host Locations

Close-up of "Sacramento Archives Crawl 2014" passport booklets featuring a capitol emblem, laurel design, and the phrase "respect des fonds," stacked on a green surface.

Passports

Archives Crawl passports are given to guests as they visit host institutions. The passport provides a map of the event and information about the participating institutions. Get your passport stamped at three of the four host sites, and you'll get a set of limited-edition commemorative coasters featuring archival images.

Map showing four Archives Crawl shuttle stops in Sacramento with red arrows and labeled locations: CA State Archives, Center for Sacramento History, Central Library, and CA State Library.
Sacramento State's mascot, Herky, boards a green Amador Stage Lines bus on a sunny day, with trees and blue sky in the background.

Free Bus Transportation

Free bus transportation is provided between all four locations: the California State Library, the California State Archives, the Central branch of the Sacramento Public Library, and the Center for Sacramento History. Bus stops include the schedule and balloons to mark the stop.

A group of people gathers around a large table in a library as a staff member shows pages from an oversized illustrated book, with bookshelves and rare books in the background.

Tours and Programs

In addition to the open house, sign up for behind-the-scenes tours of archival vaults at the host locations and enjoy free programming, including speakers and film footage in the Central Library Galleria.

FAQs

Do I need a ticket for this free event?

You do not! This is an open-house event.

Where can I park?

Most of the host locations are located downtown and you will have to find parking there. However, the Center for Sacramento History has a parking lot and you can take the free shuttle bus to the other locations.

Does it matter which location I start with?

It does not! You can begin the Crawl at any of the four host locations and go in any order you want. We provide a free shuttle bus for transportation to the other stops. You may want to check on special event times for each host location to line up your arrival.

Does it matter what time I start the Crawl?

It does not. As long as you are within the 10 am - 4 pm timeframe, you can go through any of the host locations whenever you want.

Is this an event for kids?

Crawl is for anyone who enjoys history and wants to explore the resources available to them in their community and have fun doing it. The Crawl is truly for all!