The National Art Library was closed between 12 and 24 Sep for its annual stocktake. During this fortnight the library team can work on projects that are hard to complete when the library is open. For example, we can look for missing books, rehouse or move stock, or do general house-keeping tasks such as tidying and reviewing the collection. These projects allow us to look more closely at some of our treasures and get to know our collection a bit better. Some of the items that caught the attention of the library team during audits are included below.
L’Art Nouveau, 1896.
Plaquettes a la gloire des grands vins de France
Draeger Freres pour les Etablissements Nicolas, 1930-1932.
This year the team audited
- more than 9,000 items
- over 1000 periodical runs
- 800 pamphlets were rehoused in more conservation friendly storage – i.e. acid free boxes and envelopes.
- several items thought missing, were found
- More than 500,000 catalogue records were updated. Many of these updates added information to the records which make it quicker and easier for the staff to locate items in our many bookstores
The effect of all the above is that items can be found and delivered to our readers more efficiently.
Lastly, we have re-arranged the Library space and as a result, have created 6 more study spaces in the Centre Room.
All the above is to ensure we can look after the collections well and as a result, get the items to readers in good condition and in a timely manner.
Posted on behalf of Nicola Imrie, Operations Librarian at the National Art Library
