The Folger Shakespeare Library is world-renowned for its early modern collections focused on Shakespeare. Beyond these historical treasures, the library maintains a small but intriguing collection of contemporary artists’ books inspired by Shakespearean plays. Each book in this collection offers a creative dialogue with the Bard’s works, transforming text into visual and tactile experiences. One notable example is Sue Doggett’s The Tempest: A Sketchbook from the Play by William Shakespeare, which reinterprets the play through artistic illustration.
About the Collection
While modest in size, the artists’ books at the Folger represent a unique intersection of literature and visual art. These works engage with Shakespearean narratives in imaginative ways, allowing scholars and artists to explore reinterpretations of classical texts. The collection complements the library’s broader holdings and provides a contemporary lens on literary study.
Finding Artists’ Books
Locating these works is simple using Hamnet, the Folger’s online catalog. Typing “artists’ books” under the search field and selecting Subject & Form/Genre Browse pulls up the collection. Clicking the first result displays the full list of available artists’ books. Each entry provides detailed catalog information, helping researchers plan their visit or explore further digitally.
Location and Directions
The Folger Shakespeare Library is at 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003. Visitors can take the Orange or Blue Metro lines to Capitol South. From there, walk up 1st Street SE and turn right onto East Capitol Street. The library entrance closest to 2nd Street provides access to researchers.
Visiting the Collection
The Folger’s reading room is restricted to scholars and qualified researchers who apply for reader status. For those unable to visit in person, the library offers LUNA, its Digital Image Collection, where scans of artists’ books can be viewed. Reference librarians are also available via email for inquiries. Whether accessed digitally or on-site, the collection provides a thoughtful, creative engagement with Shakespeare’s work.
Even in a small collection, the Folger’s artists’ books demonstrate how literature can inspire contemporary art, bridging centuries and inviting fresh perspectives on timeless stories.