In this ASMR video, watch and listen as librarians Vicky Worsfold and Caroline Penn guide you through the National Art Library at the V&A – a calm and tranquil yet deeply sensory space, which is open to all.
ASMR stands for autonomous sensory meridian response – a pleasant tingling sensation beginning on the scalp and moving down the neck, which is triggered by a delicate or satisfying auditory or visual experience.
Join us as Vicky shows how to handle precious books using a book sofa and weights (also called book snakes), while Caroline cares for objects with fragile spines using linen tape. Listen as they turn the pages of a 19th-century treasure from the library – a very large book called an elephant folio. Titled ‘The Birds of America’ by John James Audubon, it contains exquisite illustrations of birds, and is an example of a book that can be requested from the Library.
Come and experience the National Art Library for yourself at the V&A.
Search the Library Catalogue to order a book.
