Phillips Collection Library

About the Collection

Located in a historic Dupont Circle house, the Phillips Collection contains European and American art from the past two centuries. The library and archival collections support research and curation in the museum. The library has a small collection of artists’ books, with a particular focus on the artist Bea Nettles.

Finding Artists’ Books

On the library catalog page, click the “Advanced” button to get to the advanced search. On the next page, change the pull-down menu from “Author” to “Subject.” In the text box, type “artists’ books.” Your search phrase should look like “Subject contains artists’ books.” Click “Advanced Search” to perform the search. The results contain artists’ books from the collection, along with a few secondary, reference sources about artists’ books.

How to Get There

1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009

To get to the Phillips Collection by Metro, take the Red line to Dupont Circle station, and exit at Q Street. Walk left on Q Street for one block then turn right on 21st Street. The museum consists of several, connected buildings. The library is located in the Sant Building, Lower Level 1, beneath the main entrance.

What to Expect

Researchers should make an appointment with the librarian by calling 202-387-2151, extension 212. Research appointments are available from Tuesday through Friday, 10 to 4:30. The Phillips Collection library is open to the public Tuesday and Thursday, from 2‒5 pm.

Other Resources

Phillips Collection Library and Archives