Library

The Library at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art supports the research and interest needs of scholars, students, educators, and community members who wish to learn more about American art and culture.

To Fulfill Our Mission, We:

  • collect, preserve, and provide access to a large American art reference collection
  • provide access to special collection and archival materials through Museum gallery exhibitions and library displays
  • provide educational programs for public, school, and community groups

Access to Crystal Bridges Library

The Library welcomes all researchers and guests during the Museum's public hours. Special Collections and Archives are available for private viewing by appointment only.

More about library access


About the Library

The Crystal Bridges Library supports the research and interest needs of community members who wish to learn more about American art and culture. The collection includes some 60,000 volumes, including a non-circulating art reference collection, special collections, and archives.

About the Library

Collection and Archives

In addition to the general art reference collection, the Library features several special collections that support the mission of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. These include, but are not limited to, catalogs, periodicals, artists' books, vertical files on artists, and an institutional archive.

Collection and Archives


Library Services

Library services include searchable Internet and subscription databases, computer stations, wireless Internet access, and scanners. Librarians are on duty to assist guests as needed. Changing exhibitions of rare materials are displayed periodically for Museum and Library visitors.

Library Services

Building the Library

Current Crystal Bridges Library holdings represent a combination of several disparate collections. A team of librarians, staff members, and volunteers joined forces to merge these holdings into one library catalog.

Building the Library