George Mason University, located just outside Washington, DC in Northern Virginia, hosts a growing collection of artists’ books that attracts students and researchers alike. The collection includes over 250 titles, featuring established and regional artists, diverse media, and works with themes that support faculty teaching and class projects. Designed as a teaching collection, it showcases the breadth of book art, including styles, genres, and materials, and even includes works produced by George Mason students.
Finding Artists’ Books
To explore the collection, search the library catalog for “artists’ books.” More specific searches, such as “small press books” or “pop-up books,” may yield additional results. Using the classic catalog builder, you can set limits by selecting “Fenwick Special Collections” under Location, then search by keyword. The George Mason Artist Book InfoGuide offers guidance, examples from the collection, and strategies to help users locate materials efficiently.
Visiting the Library
The artists’ books are housed in the Fenwick Library Special Collections Department on the second floor, Room C-204. George Mason University is located at 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030. Directions to campus and the library are available on the university website.
What to Expect
Appointments are required to view artists’ books in the Special Collections. The library staff can provide guidance for class visits or research inquiries. If you are unfamiliar with the campus, allow extra time for transportation and locating the library. The collection provides a quiet, focused environment for students and researchers to engage deeply with book art.