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Information
The Library is open to the public free of charge, by appointment only. Librarians are available to assist researchers both virtually and in-person.
If you would like to visit the Library, please make an appointment by clicking the button below.
In preparation for your visit, please review our library use policy.
The Library is located on the second floor of the Museum, adjacent to Salisbury Hall.
To reach a librarian, call 508.793.4382 or email library@worcesterart.org.
Collections
Library materials may be consulted on-site in our Reading Room, by appointment only. Museum staff, docents, studio art faculty, and members of the College of the Holy Cross community may borrow books from the library through our automated check-out system.
The collection encompasses all periods and media of art in direct relation to the Museum's permanent collection and exhibitions. Collection strengths include:
- Exhibition catalogues and accompanying publications
- Artist files
- Reference sources
- Artist illustrated children's literature
- Artist monographs
- Art conservation and restoration
Services
Please contact library@worcesterart.org for all scheduling requests and questions relating to library services.
These services can be modified for virtual environments.
Personal Research Sessions
An opportunity for a more in-depth consultation on how to tackle specific research problems, or assistance using specific library resources.
Class Visits
Arrange a time to visit the Library with your students to receive instruction on accessing and using the Library's print and digital collections, or receive instruction on general art research techniques and tools.
Library Tour and Orientation
If you're looking for a simple tour of the layout of the Library and an overview of our collections, this is the perfect fit for you! Group tours or individual orientations are welcome.
Inter-library Loan
For Museum staff, docents, and Education faculty, you may request materials from other libraries by sending citation information to library@worcesterart.org.
Worcester Academic Research Collaborative (ARC)
As a member of this collaborative, we share and receive access to collections and resources held by other member libraries. Email library@worcesterart.org to get an ARC borrowing card. Visit the ARC website to learn more and search member library catalogues.
Programs and Events
Story Times
Join us for a story, snack, and small craft in the Library reading room. The whole family is welcome! Check the Museum calendar to find an upcoming story time!
Reading Group
Join our interactive Reading Group for members and staff of the Worcester Art Museum! Each month, we will select one book (fiction or nonfiction) related to any aspect of visual arts to read and discuss together. Learn more about the WAM Reading Group
History
The Worcester Art Museum Library, founded in 1909, is dedicated to the study and enjoyment of the history of art by collecting resources in support of the Museum's mission, exhibitions, and permanent collections. The Library is managed in association with the College of the Holy Cross, a collaboration that began in 2001. The reading room is located in the original Sculpture Gallery of the Museum's 1898 building.
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