Art Collection

Northwestern University Library's Art Collection houses over 150,000 catalogued volumes and subscribes to 500 journals and over 20 major databases in art, architecture, design, photography, and related visual arts.

It supports the research and curricular needs of Art History, Art Theory and Practice, and other arts and humanities departments.

Collection strengths include 19th- and 20th-century Western art and architectural serials.

Two subject specialist librarians are available for assistance with research and instruction.

FAQs

View frequently asked questions about our services and resources.

Services

Find out more information about what additional resources are available at the Art Collection, from reference assistance to equipment.

Circulation Policy

Most books in the Art Collection circulate to faculty, students, and staff of Northwestern University. Check for possible restrictions and details.

Directions

The Art Collection is located on Level 3 of the Deering Library.

Shelving Locations and Call Numbers

Learn how to locate art-related material in the Art Collection and other possible locations.

Art Museums

Check out a comprehensive list of art museums in the Chicago metropolitan area and around.

Art in the Reading Room

Find out more about the 7 portraits, 19 window medallions and 14 busts and statues displayed in the Eloise W. Martin Reading Room.

Deering Library Architecture

The Charles Deering Library was dedicated January 3, 1933, and served as Northwestern University's central library until 1970, when a research library was constructed.