Tucked within Georgetown University’s academic resources is a modest but intriguing collection of works related to book art. Most of the materials are secondary sources, offering context, history, and analysis for students and researchers. A few primary artists’ books are preserved in the Special Collections department, quietly waiting to be discovered. These works provide a starting point for anyone interested in exploring the field of book arts.
Finding Artists’ Books
To locate these treasures, start with the main library catalog. Select Georgetown University as your search scope. Enter “artists’ books” in quotation marks and choose “subject” from the drop-down menu. On the results page, select the entry labeled “artists’ books” with the largest number of results. You will find a mix of secondary references and a handful of primary sources tucked into Special Collections.
How to Get There
The library sits at 3700 O Street NW, in the heart of Georgetown. From Rosslyn Metro station on the Blue or Orange line, it is roughly a mile’s walk. Alternatively, the Georgetown University Transportation Shuttle connects the campus with Rosslyn, Dupont Circle, and other stops across DC and Virginia, making access easier for visitors and students alike.
What to Expect
Georgetown community members have full access to the library during its open hours. Visitors can enter from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., but access is restricted after 10 p.m. A valid ID is required. Secondary sources can be browsed freely in the general stacks, while primary artists’ books are housed in Special Collections. Researchers interested in these rare works should schedule an appointment with the department by calling 202-687-7444.