Art collection: reference material

Catalogues

Art books

• A small general collection of reference books are on open access on the first floor in the Reference Library.
• You will need to search the online catalogue and, for most pre-1986 purchases, the card catalogue (entries are arranged by subject and author in one alphabetical sequence).
• Please ask the staff for assistance if a particular book cannot be found.

Historic buildings index

This is an index of engravings and other graphic representations of historic houses, castles etc., that occur in books printed from the seventeenth century onwards. Information on local country houses and sculpture is available.

Victorian paintings index

This is an index of famous nineteenth century paintings arranged by title. It can enable the painter of a particular work to be quickly identified.

Services

Information on artists

Biographical information on artists is available as well as an extensive index of local artists. There is also a subject index to the National Art Library. This is held on microfiche.

Valuations

Although the staff are unable to value antiques, art objects and other material, the library does have many valuation guides, including annual auction price guides for paintings.

Illustrations

The Library has a collection of over 8000 mounted colour illustrations which are available for loan.

Features of the stock

Copyright-free illustrations

The Library has a collection of books and loose leaf folders containing copyright free illustrations. These can be reproduced and used by anyone for illustration or graphic art purposes.

Directories

Directories devoted to the world of arts and crafts are available for consultation.

Guides and exhibition catalogues

There is a collection of guidebooks for historic buildings and a collection of art exhibition catalogues which include those of the Royal West of England Academy.

Trade collections

Old trade catalogues are a unique feature of the collection. In addition to these the library also holds a microfiche copy of the trade catalogues held in the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Periodicals

Apart from current periodicals and annuals, the library holds many nineteenth and early twentieth century periodicals, many of which have been indexed.

For details see the complete list of art journals and magazines, including back runs of titles that we no longer take (pdf, 138 KB)

Viewing rare books

• To view some of the rare or valuable works it will be necessary to give advance notice of at least two working days and to produce identification showing name, address and signature.
• A list of acceptable identification can be found under 'Membership'.
• Some material may not be available at lunchtimes, on Saturdays, or after 5 pm on weekdays, and the library reserves the right to require items to be used under supervision, sometimes in the Reference Library.
• Please note that fragile material cannot be photocopied.

Further information

If you would like more information on any of the Art Collection services provided, please ask the staff who will be happy to help.