About the Collection
The Warren M. Robbins Library is part of the Smithsonian Institution Libraries and serves the National Museum of African Art. Its artists’ book collection contains works by African artists and works about Africa. This small but rich collection contains numerous books with artists’ prints, sculptural elements, and fine press work.
Finding Artists’ Books
To find artists’ books at the Warren M. Robbins Library use SIRIS, the Smithsonian’s online public access catalog. Under the Search tab at the top, click “Combined.” When the “Search by” page comes up, enter “artists’ books” under “Subject Keyword.” Also, under “Limits” select “African Art Library” in the right-side menu. Click the arrow to perform the search. This will create a list of books located at the National Museum of African Art library that have been marked as artists’ books.
How to Get There
950 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
The Warren M. Robbins Library is located in the National Museum of African Art. Take the Blue line to the Smithsonian station, exiting at 12th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW. Walk east on Independence Avenue until you come to the Enid A. Haupt Garden. Enter the garden then find the National Museum of African Art on the right.
What to Expect
Make an appointment to do research by calling 202-633-4680. The library is open Monday through Friday, 8:45 to 5:15. Check in at the guard’s desk, and then proceed to the library. The library is downstairs in Room 2138.
Other Resources
NMAA Warren M. Robbins Library
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