When it was established back in 1915, Western Costume Company's Research Library was the first in the industry, and today remains the largest costume research library of its kind. The first Director of Western's Research Library was Ned ("The Man Who Knows Everything") Lambert. Ned Lambert dedicated himself to stocking the library with rare books and rare pictures from all over the world. Through the years, Western has continued to acquire historical and current publications.

Of special value to researchers is the exceptional collection of periodicals. One can find issues of "The Illustrated London News" from its first printing in 1843 to the present day. There are bound issues of "Vogue" magazine from before 1919 and over 54 years of "Peterson's" and "Godey's" ladies' books, complete with hand-colored plates. The library subscribes to over 40 apparel focused magazines and newspapers, and has 130 large file drawers of historical apparel clippings.

Today the Research Library at Western Costume consists of over 15,000 volumes, many of which are well over 100 years old and serve as a priceless resource for authenticity and accuracy. Western's collection is often the first stop for Hollywood's top Costume Designers and Art Directors, and has even served as inspiration to Fashion Designers.

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