The Ryerson and Burnham Library provides tools and resources that inspire curious readers to discover information about art objects, artists, and art movements around the world.
The Art Institute’s research library has existed since the founding of the museum in 1879, collecting publications in concert with the museum’s exhibitions and art acquisitions. Today, the Ryerson and Burnham Library is one of the foremost art, architecture, and design research collections in the world.Â
The Library contains published works, from art monographs and exhibition catalogs documenting artists and shows worldwide, to auction catalogs, serials and periodicals, rare illustrated books, gallery ephemera, and books made by artists.Â
Our collection is accessible to anyone by appointment. Every year, hundreds of researchers, including students and faculty, artists, architects, writers, filmmakers, auction professionals, curators, and curious readers of all stripes, make discoveries with us.Â
Search the Online Catalog
The Ryerson and Burnham Library cares for more than 670,000 print titles, 100,000 auction catalogs, and 40,000 artist files, and maintains 200 current print serial subscriptions and an extensive portfolio of subscription digital resources.
To get started, explore our online catalog.
Email us
Our expert staff will help to guide your research journey. Explore our research guides or email [email protected] with questions.
