Art Library Collections

Books

We hold approximately 100,000 books in Reference, General, and Folio collections. Most of the books in the General collection can be borrowed. 

All books in the Art Library are classified in the Fine Arts section of the Library of Congress classification system:

  • N — visual arts in general
  • NA — architecture
  • NB — sculpture
  • NC — drawing, design, illustration
  • ND — painting
  • NE — print media
  • NK — decorative arts
  • NX — arts in general

Periodicals

The Art Library subscribes to an array of print and electronic journals, and holds over 6,000 bound periodical volumes. 

Current print issues are shelved alphabetically by title, for easy browsing. Bound issues are shelved by their LC call number. 

Annuals and irregular serials are shelved with books. Periodicals and all serials, regardless of format, do not circulate.

Reference

Our print reference section is located near the entrance. It contains:

  • dictionaries and encyclopedias 
  • directories
  • bibliographies
  • indexes
  • catalogs 
  • other materials for quick fact checking in all aspects of the visual arts

Art Reference materials do not circulate.

Pamphlets

We hold over 50,000 pamphlets on all art subjects, including exhibition catalogs and clippings. They are arranged by subject (e.g., Art Deco; Textiles) or artist’s last name (e.g., Rubens, Warhol). 

These items circulate, and may be renewed once. 

Microforms

Available on Level 1 of Rosenthal Library, these collections include: 

  • back issues of periodicals
  • doctoral dissertations
  • exhibition catalogs and documentation (such as the Venice Biennale of 1895–1978 and various gallery and exhibition catalogs of the 20th century)
  • image collections (such as medieval manuscript illumination)
  • library catalogs
  • art historical and theoretical treatises
  • other miscellaneous items

All microform materials are indicated by an MF or MC ahead of the call number.

Special Collections and Rare Books 

  • Shelved in closed stacks and available for on-site use
  • Indicated in the catalog by ART X in the call number 
  • Additional special collections, such as private papers and other archival material are housed in the Libraries’ Special Collections and Archives

QC M.A. Theses in Art History

  • Shelved in closed stacks and available for use on-site