A place for inquiry, inspiration, and research.
Founded in 1878, the RISD Library is one of the oldest independent art college libraries in the country. Its more than 145,000 volumes and 380 periodical subscriptions offer unusual depth and richness in the areas of architecture, art, design and photography. The collection provides strong historical and contemporary perspectives, and materials in landscape architecture, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry support upper-level research. The library is also noted for its artist’s book collection, its rare books and outstanding visual resources collections.
The mission of the Library is to provide collections and services to support Rhode Island School of Design in its commitment to educate artists and designers to be effective and creative in their chosen fields, and to become aware of the wider cultural and social context in which they function. The Library is committed to serving the artistic and scholarly community beyond RISD, and to preserving collections for future generations. The collections and services are attuned to the special needs and interests of a visually literate and visually aware constituency.
