The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Library is part of the Smithsonian Institution Libraries. It holds a significant collection of artists’ books, mainly artists’ multiples. The library’s works complement the museum’s permanent collection. Therefore, if the museum collects an artist’s work, the library often collects that artist’s bookworks. As a result, the Hirshhorn Library includes extensive artists’ books by Sol LeWitt, Ed Ruscha, and others.
Finding Artists’ Books
To explore the collection, use SIRIS, the Smithsonian’s online public catalog. Under the Search tab, select Combined. On the next page, enter “artists’ books” under Subject Keyword. Then, under Limits, select “Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Library.” Click the arrow to search. This process generates a complete list of all artists’ books housed at the library.
Visiting the Library
The library is inside the Hirshhorn Museum, at 7th Street and Independence Avenue SW. To get there, take the Green, Yellow, Orange, or Blue Metro line to L’Enfant Plaza. Use the 7th Street SW/Smithsonian exit and walk one block north on 7th Street.
What to Expect
To view artists’ books, schedule an appointment by calling 202-633-2773 or emailing the library. The library is open Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 5 pm, except federal holidays. Upon arrival, inform the museum guard that you have a research appointment. You will then be escorted to the fourth-floor library.
Additionally, while at the museum, don’t miss a sculptural bookwork on display: Lucas Samaras’ Book No. 6, a book filled with straight pins, is usually showcased in a plexiglass case on the second floor.