Group visits to the National Art Library

Group visits

Universities, colleges, schools, and other groups brought together for educational or artistic pursuits, are welcome to book a group visit to the National Art Library. These are primarily intended for tutors or teachers to make use of the  Library for their own teaching purposes by selecting material themselves in advance and then presenting it to their group on the day of the visit. Tutors are welcome to make an appointment with a member of Library staff to discuss the selection of material. A member of staff will attend the session to give a brief introduction to the National Art Library and to guide visitors on the handling of the material shown.

If a group wishes to see recent acquisitions or work by contemporary book artists, Library staff will, if requested, select the material and present the session to the group. Group size is generally limited to 25 people on a Monday, and 12 people on Tuesdays and Fridays although it is possible for several groups from the same institution to visit on the same day.

Group visits can take place on Monday between 14.00–16.00 and from Tuesdays to Fridays, between 10.00–12.00 and 14.00–1600.

A minimum of three weeks' notice is required. However it is advisable to book at least two months in advance as demand can be very high.

The V&A's Education Department handles initial enquiries and may be contacted on +44 (0)20 7942 2211, 09.00–17.30, seven days a week, or at bookings.office@vam.ac.uk

For further information see Making a booking.

Inductions

Inductions for individuals are available but must be booked in advance. Inductions give a practical introduction to the Library and its resources, giving readers the opportunity to ask specific questions about how best to tackle a particular area of research.They take place on selected Tuesday mornings at 10.00 for approximately 30 minutes.

To book a place, please Contact us online or ring the Enquiry Desk on +44 (0)20 7942 2400, between 10.00 and 17.30 Tuesday to Friday.

Special inductions can be arranged for student groups from colleges and universities. These are usually offered to degree students at the point of starting research on dissertation topics, generally at the end of their second, or beginning of their final, year. To book one of these sessions, which are held on Mondays between 14.00-16.00, please call +44 (0)20 7942 2211.