The National Art Library is a major public reference library of fine and decorative arts of many countries and periods. It is open to the public as a reference library. Before you can use the Library you must register as a Reader. This can be done online in advance. The National Art Library opening times are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday: 10.00 – 17.30, Friday: 10.00 – 18.30.

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Computer art reading list

A selection of recommended books on computer art, computer graphics and digital art. All books listed can be found in the National Art Library. 

Thumbnail of National Art Library Forster collection

National Art Library Forster collection

John Forster (1812–76) was a noted biographer, critic, essayist and historian who collected a vast library. He bequeathed this collection to his wife and on her death it passed to the South Kensington Museum (renamed the Victoria & Albert Museum in 1899).

Thumbnail of National Art Library Dyce collection

National Art Library Dyce collection

The Revd Alexander Dyce (1798–1869) bequeathed over 14,000 books to the South Kensington Museum (renamed the Victoria & Albert Museum in 1899), along with pictures, prints, drawings and other objets d'art.

Thumbnail of Art auction sales, sales catalogues and price guides study guide

Art auction sales, sales catalogues and price guides study guide

Recommended resources for finding information on art auctions sales, sales catalogues, and price guides.

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National Art Library opening hours

National Art Library opening hours

British Design 1948–2012: Innovation in the Modern Age

31 March–12 August 2012

Showcasing over 300 British design objects, this exhibition celebrates the best of British post-war art and design from the 1948 ‘Austerity Games' to the summer of 2012.

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Western Illuminated Manuscripts

Western Illuminated Manuscripts

A magnificent three volume catalogue of the manuscripts in the V&A's National Art Library

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Event - Recording Britain Symposium

Fri 20 April 2012 10:30–17:30

CONFERENCE: This symposium will explore the presence of the past, National identity, taste and nostalgia in relation to the Recording Britain collection of water colours and drawings produced at the start of World War II. Speakers include Patrick Wright, David Heathcote, and artists Ingrid Pollard, Abigail Reynolds, Simon Roberts and Paul Scott.

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