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About the Collection

The Warren M. Robbins Library, part of the Smithsonian Institution Libraries, supports the research and exhibitions of the National Museum of African Art.
This specialized library holds a distinctive collection of artists’ books created by African artists as well as works that interpret or celebrate the continent’s diverse artistic heritage.

Though modest in size, the collection is rich in visual and conceptual variety. Visitors can discover hand-printed volumes, books with sculptural bindings,
and limited editions that combine text, image, and form in powerful ways. These works capture the intersection of literature, design, and African creativity —
from traditional printmaking to modern experimental book art.

How to Find Artists’ Books

Researchers can explore the collection using the Smithsonian Institution Research Information System (SIRIS) —
the museum’s public online catalog. To locate artists’ books:

  1. Visit the SIRIS Catalog.
  2. Under the Search tab, select Combined.
  3. In the “Search by” section, type artists’ books under Subject Keyword.
  4. In the Limits panel, choose African Art Library from the right-side menu.
  5. Click the arrow to perform the search and browse titles held at the National Museum of African Art Library.

This catalog provides access to records for printed, digital, and mixed-media artists’ books available in the library’s collection.

Visiting Information

The Warren M. Robbins Library is located inside the National Museum of African Art at:

950 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20560, USA

Visitors can reach the museum via the Blue Line of the Washington Metro, exiting at the Smithsonian Station (12th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW).
From there, walk east along Independence Avenue to the Enid A. Haupt Garden. The entrance to the National Museum of African Art is located on the right.

Appointments and Access

Researchers are encouraged to schedule an appointment before visiting.
To arrange access, call 202-633-4680 or reach out via the Smithsonian Libraries’ contact form.

The library is open Monday through Friday, 8:45 AM – 5:15 PM.
Upon arrival, visitors should check in at the museum guard’s desk and proceed to Room 2138, located downstairs.

Location Map

Why Visit

Exploring the artists’ books at the Warren M. Robbins Library offers a rare opportunity to engage with the evolving narrative of African creativity.
Whether you are a researcher, student, or art enthusiast, the collection provides an intimate window into the artistry of the book as an expressive, cultural, and historical form.