The Indie Photobook Library focuses on self-published and independent photobooks. These books use photography as their main medium. While some consider photobooks a type of artists’ book, many treat them as a separate genre. The library started collecting and exhibiting photobooks in 2010. Today, the collection includes about 2,000 books, and over 1,600 are already cataloged.
Artists, publishers, and collectors can donate their works. This approach has created a diverse and international collection. Many books come from the United States and Europe. The library hosts exhibitions and pop-up events in Washington, DC, and globally. You can check upcoming events on the library’s About page, Facebook, Twitter, or email newsletter.
Searching for Artists’ Books
The library catalog is online. Each book record includes details from the artist or publisher, such as title, photographer, binding type, and printing method. You can browse the catalog by image, photographer, or title using links at the top of the homepage.
To find photobooks categorized as artists’ books, try different search terms. Because contributors submit information themselves, terms appear exactly as entered. Use phrases like “artists’ book,” “artists’ books,” “artist book,” or “artist books” with quotation marks. You can also try “book art” or specific binding types, such as “accordion.”
Visiting the Library
The Indie Photobook Library is open by appointment only. Its exact location is not published online, but it is accessible by Metro in Arlington. To visit, email the library to schedule an appointment and receive directions.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Visits are one-on-one with the curator. You can request specific books or explore based on your interests. The curator guides you to photobooks that might inspire or surprise you. The library has no restrictions on what to bring, and you do not need ID. This setup makes the library a unique and interactive space for discovering photobooks.